Questions and Answers
What is a pendentive?
An elemental in construction that allows for the placement of a dome or a square space.
Which of the following is an architectural ornament resembling the leaves of a plant?
What is the lowest division of an entablature resting on the capital of a column?
What does the term 'capital' refer to in architecture?
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What is meant by 'colossal order' in classical architecture?
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Define 'cornice' in architectural terms.
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What is 'entasis' in relation to columns?
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What is the Ionic order?
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What is a 'post and lintel' construction system?
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What is terracotta?
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What does 'in antis' refer to in classical architecture?
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What is the base in architectural terms?
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What is cast iron known for in historic architecture?
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What is a column?
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What is a dome?
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What is a facade?
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What is a nave in a Christian church?
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What does a pilaster do?
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What is a pylon in classical architecture?
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What is a volute?
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What is an arcade in architecture?
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What is a bracket in architectural terms?
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What is a clerestory?
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Study Notes
Classical Elements of Architecture
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Pendentive: A construction element facilitating the placement of a dome in a square space.
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Acanthus: A genus of Mediterranean plants with spiny leaves and showy flowers, also used as an architectural ornament, particularly in Corinthian capitals.
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Architrave: The lowest part of an entablature, resting directly on the column's capital, or the molding around rectangular openings like doors.
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Capital: The uppermost part of a column or pilaster, functioning as a transition between the column and the load above, broadening the support surface.
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Colossal Order: A grand architectural style where columns or pilasters extend across two or more stories, often incorporating smaller orders in window and door framings.
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Cornice: A decorative molding that serves as a ledge, topping either a building or furniture design.
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Entasis: A slight curve in a column's shaft designed to create an optical illusion of straightness.
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Ionic Order: One of the three classical architectural orders, characterized by slender columns with volutes in the capitals, standing on bases that separate them from the platform.
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Post and Lintel: A foundational building system where horizontal elements (lintels) are supported by vertical structures (posts), allowing for large open spaces.
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Terracotta: A durable, reddish-brown fire clay used for various purposes, including ornamentation, structural units, and ceramic art.
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In Antis: Refers to classical temples with antae that form the sides of a recessed portico supported by columns.
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Base: The lower section of a structural element, such as a wall or column, considered distinct in design.
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Cast Iron: A prominent building material during the Industrial Revolution, preceding the advent of steel.
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Column: Also known as a pillar, it serves as a key structural element, transferring weight from above to the supporting base below.
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Dome: A curved roof resembling the upper half of a sphere, commonly seen in various architectural styles.
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Facade: The front or face of a building, crucial for establishing design tone and visual impact.
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Nave: The central part of a Christian church, extending from the entrance to the transepts.
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Pilaster: An ornamental feature that simulates a column's appearance but lacks structural support.
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Pylon: A monumental gateway in Egyptian temples consisting of two tapering towers connected by a lower section, framing the entrance.
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Volute: A scroll-like ornamentation found on Ionic column capitals, later influencing Corinthian and Composite styles.
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Arcade: A series of arches supported by columns or piers, often creating a covered walkway. Blind arcades are characteristic of Romanesque architecture, drawn from Gothic influences.
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Bracket: A structural or decorative element projecting from a wall to support weight, with forms like corbels and consoles used for added strength.
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Clerestory: A section of wall that contains windows above eye level, allowing light into the interior space.
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Test your knowledge on key elements of classical architecture with these flashcards. Each card features a term and its definition, providing insight into architectural functions and decorations. Perfect for architecture students or enthusiasts!