What Are Corbels?
History Highly stylized corbels were a popular part of Medieval buildings. These early corbels were made from stone. Function A corbel is a necessary part of building construction when hanging a heavy weight. Large ledges sometimes need corbels to support their weight. Types Corbels are sometimes used indoors to support indoor balconies or jutting countertops. These may be made of stone or carved from wood. Identification Normal corbels are known for their simple designs. They often depict animals such as rams and rabbits. French and Italian corbels were known for their more elaborate designs and larger sizes.