1) A recurring subject, theme, or idea in art. For example, grainstacks appear frequently as motifs in the works of Claude Monet (1840- 1926).

Claude Monet. Grainstacks, Sunset, Snow Effect. Oil on canvas. 1891. Art Institute of Chicago.

2) A distinct or separable element in the design of a pattern.

Paul Poiret.  Silk Satin Print with Parrot Motif.  Ca. 1911-1923. Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York.