Early Christian / Byzantine Flashcards Preview

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Flashcards in Early Christian / Byzantine Deck (16)
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1
Q

Influence of geography on Early Christian design style

A

Constantinople is between Europe and Asia - design influenced by both

2
Q

Catacomb

A

Underground chambers in Rome used by the early Christians as hiding places and for religious worship.

3
Q

Lunette

A

Semicircular motif, resembling a crescent or half-moon.

4
Q

Arcade

A

A series of adjoining arches
supported by pillars or columns
usually forming a part of the
architectural treatment on the
façade of the building.

5
Q
A

Basilica Plan

Originally a Roman hall of justice or commercial
exchange with a large central nave and side
aisles. The plan later formed the basis of the early
Christian church with an apse added at the end of
the nave.

6
Q

Revetment

A

A facing of fine material over less attractive material.

7
Q
A

Squinch

A method used to connect a dome to a square base via pendentive arches that project upward and inward from a corner.

8
Q
A

Pendentive

The triangular concave form that
transmits the weight of a circular
dome over a square to the four corner
supports; originating in Byzantine
architecture.

9
Q

Drum

A

In architecture, a
cylindrical block used to form
a column or a cylindrical wall
bearing a dome or cupola.

10
Q

Rinceaux

A

French architectural term for a running border or strip that is usually decorated with acanthus leaves, fruit, and foliage, used on such surfaces as a panel, frieze, or some other architectural feature.

11
Q
A

Impost capitals

The crowning member of a column, pilaster, or pier, often tapered, that provides structural support and transition for the thrust of vaults or arches; similar to an impost block.

12
Q

Dosseret

A

A plain or decorated masonry block (also called a dosseret) mounted between the capital of a column and the entablature or arch that receives and distributes the weight of an arch.

13
Q
A

Greek cross

14
Q

Coptic design

A

The design of Christianized Egypt. Highly stylized, flat forms, simple outlines.

15
Q
A

Polykandelon

A light fixture made of thick metal which hung from chains. Circular cutouts held small glass oil lamps. Common in churches, hung low and close to worshipers.

16
Q
A

Byzantine throne

Panels of carved birds, animals, and bible scenes.