The shape of the first, waxing, and last quarter, waning, of the phases of the moon. It is a motif used extensively in print, weaves and craftsmanship.
Figuring in traditional artistry throughout the world, in Hindu and Christian iconography for example, it is particularly associated with ancient Byzantine civilization, in combination with stars throughout the history of numerous Mediterranean civilisations – Sumerians, Persians, Ottomans….
In architecture, a crescent describes a structural layout in the shape of an arc–i.e., the Royal Crescent in Bath, in England.
I read the other day that to know whether the moon is waxing or waning you look at the curve of the crescent of the moon in ‘b’ for beginning as waxing against ‘e’ in ending for waning.
Or
To look at the side that is incomplete:
Incomplete to the West
The Moon will disappear and hide in its nest
Incomplete to the East
Soon it’s as big as a Christmas feast.
Or
If you see the Moon at the end of the day
A bright Full Moon is on its way
If you see the Moon in the early dawn
Look real quick, it will soon be gone.