The Art History 11
Book of Words french edition by Monique Araujo
Dome
A rounded vault
forming the roof of
a building or struc-
ture, typically with a circular base.
Arch A curved symmetrical structure spanning an opening
and typically supporting the weight
of a bridge, roof, or wall above it.
Madonna The Virgin Mary; A picture, statue, or medallion of the Madonna,
typically depicted
seated and holding the infant Jesus.
Cross A representation of Christianity. Two
pieces of wood fitted together in the
middle what Jesus and others were crucified on.
Smoke A visible suspension of carbon or
other particles in
air. Typically emitted from a burning substance like a candle.
Candle A cylinder or block of wax/tallow with a central wick that is lit to produce light as it burns. Used by churches to create a mystical lumination around the altar in the apse.
Sheep A domesticated ruminant mammal with a thick woolly coat & curving horns. A flock of sheep symbolized us, mankind, being herded by Jesus, The Good Shepard.
Halo A disk or circle of light shown surrounding or above the head of a holy person or a saint to represent their holiness. Sometimes shown in the sky around the sun or a moon.
The Serpent
A large snake, dragon or snake-like
reptile. A biblical
name for Satan or a sly person fond of being trecherous.
Saint Peter He was the son of John, and one of the 12 apostles of Jesus. He is known as ‘the rock’ of the Church and was therefore dubbed the First Pope.
Crown A circular headress worn by a monarch as a symbol of authority, usually decorated with precious jewels. It was used as a symbol of mockery when the soldiers placed a ‘crown of thorns’ on Jesus’ head.
Stained Glass Colored glass used to form decorative or pictoral designs, notably in church windows, both by painting and especially by setting contrasting pieces in a lead framework like a mosaic.
Buttress
A projecting support of stone or
brick built against
a wall. A source of defense or support.
FlyingButtress
A buttress slanting from a separate pier and not touching the ground. Typically forming an arch with the wall it supports.
Minaret A tall slender
tower, typically
part of a mosque, with a balcony
from which a muezzin calls Muslims to prayer.
Altar A table in a Christian church at which the breaad and wine are consecrated in communion services. A table used as a focus for rtuals like sacrifices or offerings to dieties.
background images taken by Monique Araujo