Interior decoration changes over time.  Tastes and fashions change, but one thing that most designs have had in common is that they aim to make inhabitants of a space as comfortable and safe as possible, whilst looking as pleasing as possible according to the tastes of the time.  In the past it is likely that the most lavish decorations were used in temples or other religious structures, with people putting a lot of effort into places of worship to show dedication to their god or gods, as well as to convey messages to those who attend ceremonies.  Some of the earliest examples of art being displayed are in caves, which had been painted carefully and intricately to depict scenes of animals and hunts.  Evidence suggests that early humans did not, however, live in these caves, so it is likely the images had more significance than being pure ornament. Read the rest of this entry »