Mastering Art History Terms Quiz

In architecture, the abacus is the topmost part of the capital of a column, while the other terms refer to different architectural elements.

The term 'abstract' refers to works of art that do not aim to depict a specific object or scene, while 'realistic', 'figurative', and 'representational' art all involve some level of representing objects or scenes accurately.

Academic art is characterized by its traditional and classic approach to artistic expression, often emphasizing realistic depictions and technical skill.

An academy focuses on academic training for artists, professional development, and exhibitions, while museums showcase collections, galleries exhibit works, and studios are spaces for creating art.

Action painting is a form of abstract art in which the artist uses spontaneous, uncontrolled brush strokes and drips to create their work.

Aerial perspective, also known as atmospheric perspective, is a technique used in art to create the illusion of depth and distance in landscapes by incorporating changes in color, clarity, and detail as objects recede into the background.

The sense of beauty is often referred to as the 'aesthetic' sense, which encompasses an appreciation for art, design, and beauty in various forms.

An allegory is a form of expression, where the entire form, including characters, events, and setting, has a literal meaning but also represents a symbolic or abstract meaning.

An altarpiece is a piece of artwork which is often placed above the altar in a church. It typically features religious imagery and serves as a focal point for worship. Altar screens, tabernacles, and pulpits are also common fixtures in churches but do not specifically refer to painted or sculpted panels atop an altar.

The correct term for the alternating piers and columns dividing the nave into vertical units is the 'alternate support system.' This system involves a pattern of piers and columns working together to provide structural support in a specific way.

An ambulatory is a passageway in a church that goes around the apse or altar. The narthex is an entrance or lobby area, the transept is the section of the church that crosses the nave at a right angle, and the clerestory is the upper part of the nave with windows to let in light.

An amphiprostyle temple has columns at each end but not along the sides. Peripteral temples have columns all around, dipteral temples have double row of columns around, and hypostyle temples have a roof supported by columns.

Analytic cubism was a style of art developed by Pablo Picasso and Georges Braque that focused on breaking down objects into geometric shapes and analyzing them from different viewpoints.

In Byzantine art, anastasis refers to the representation of Christ harrowing hell, showing his descent to the underworld.

The correct term for not permitting images that pertain to religion is 'aniconic'. The term 'iconoclastic' refers to the destruction of religious images or symbols. 'Sacrilegious' relates to disrespect or violation of sacred things. 'Idolatrous' refers to the worship of idols.

The correct term for these patterns is 'animal interlace', which refers to intricate designs where animals are intertwined or interwoven.

Appropriation is the act of borrowing elements from existing works to create new work, while replication, imitation, and plagiarism involve different forms of copying or mimicking without necessarily transforming or adding value.

In church architecture, the apse is the semi-circular or polygonal end of the church where the altar is usually placed. The nave is the central part of the church where the congregation sits, the transept is the cross-shaped part that intersects the nave, and the chancel is the space around the altar.

An arabesque is a decorative art consisting of intricate linear patterns that are often combined with floral motifs. Mandala, paisley, and damask are also decorative patterns but do not specifically derive from floral motifs like an arabesque.

An arcade is a series of arches supported by columns, typically forming a passageway or walkway. The other options do not accurately match the description provided.

The correct term for a smile on a sculpture that suggests the subject is alive and well is known as an 'archaic smile'. This type of smile was commonly seen in ancient Greek sculptures.

In classical architecture, the architrave is the lintel or beam that rests on the capitals of the columns, typically plain and nonornamental.

An archivolt is a series of moldings around an arch, often found in architecture. The other options provided do not specifically refer to concentric moldings around an arch.

Art Brut is a term used to describe art created outside of traditional or institutionalized culture, often by those who are self-taught or marginalized. Outsider Art, Folk Art, and Abstract Expressionism are related to unconventional art forms but do not specifically refer to art created outside official culture like Art Brut does.

Art Deco was a popular art design movement that emerged in the 1920s and was known for its bold geometric shapes and lavish ornamentation. It influenced various areas of design including architecture, fashion, and visual arts.

Art Nouveau is known for its organic and floral motifs, making it distinct from other architectural styles like Baroque, Gothic, and Rococo which have different design principles.

An ascetic is someone who practices self-discipline and abstains from indulging in worldly pleasures to focus on spiritual and intellectual growth. The other incorrect answers seek pleasure, wealth, or believe in the rejection of all religious and moral principles.