Art History Unit 3 Vocab

Iconoclasm refers to the destruction or rejection of religious or sacred images. The practice has been seen in various religious movements throughout history.

A pendentive is a concave triangular section of a hemisphere that facilitates the transition from a square area to a circular base, enabling the construction of domes.

The term 'martyrium' specifically refers to a shrine built in honor of a Christian martyr who has faced persecution for their faith.

An ambulatory in architecture refers to a covered walkway around the apse and choir of a church, providing a path for worshippers to move around the sacred space. It is not related to medical procedures, Greek philosophy, or window designs.

A lunette refers to a specific architectural feature, not items like sandwiches, telescopes, or musical instruments.

A narthex is specifically related to the architecture of churches, serving as an entrance or lobby area.

Catacombs are specifically designed as underground burial places, consisting of galleries and chambers carved out of rock.

A mandorla is a term used in art and religious iconography to describe an almond-shaped aureola or nimbus that surrounds the figure of Christ or a sacred being. This symbolizes the divine light, glory, or presence.

A squinch in architectural terms refers to a specific structural element used to make the transition between a square space and a circular dome. It is not related to pastries, dance moves, or muscular individuals.

Encaustic is a specific painting technique involving wax and pigment, not related to pasta dishes, music genres, or flowers.

Spolia refers to the practice of re-using previous building materials or ideas in new monuments to create something new.

A coffer refers to sunken panels or cut outs in vaults, domes, or ceilings designed to let in light and reduce pressure. It is not a wooden chest for storage, a container for money, or a type of coffee drink.

An apse is a distinct architectural feature found in many buildings, particularly churches. It is a semicircular recess or protrusion that is often used as a space for an altar or religious iconography.

The nave is a specific architectural term related to Roman basilicas and churches.

Apotheosis typically refers to the process of ascending to the heavens or becoming divine in nature. It is often used to describe a transformation into a god-like state.

Veristic refers to a style that is very realistic, often portraying subjects in a highly detailed and lifelike manner.