Often seen in altars, longcase clocks, and furniture legs from the late 17th to early 18th century, these elegantly twisted columns became especially popular in Catholic Europe — and a hallmark of the Baroque style.

In English circles, the form is fondly referred to as “barley sugar twist,” due to its resemblance to the twisted candy stick. In France, however, the term torsade (or simply "barley twist" is preferred. Either way, these intricately carved elements brought movement and sophistication to chairs, tables, consoles, and cabinetry.