Early Christian / Byzantine

Question 1

Influence of geography on Early Christian design style

Answer 1

Constantinople is between Europe and Asia - design influenced by both

Question 2

Catacomb

Answer 2

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

Question 3

Lunette

Answer 3

Semicircular motif, resembling a crescent or half-moon.

Question 4

Arcade

Answer 4

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

Question 5

Answer 5

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.

Question 6

Revetment

Answer 6

A facing of fine material over less attractive material.

Question 7

Answer 7

Squinch

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

Question 8

Answer 8

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.

Question 9

Drum

Answer 9

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

Question 10

Rinceaux

Answer 10

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.

Question 11

Answer 11

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.

Question 12

Dosseret

Answer 12

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.

Question 13

Answer 13

Greek cross

Question 14

Coptic design

Answer 14

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

Question 15

Answer 15

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.

Question 16

Answer 16

Byzantine throne

Panels of carved birds, animals, and bible scenes.