Classical Architecture Exam Trivia Quiz!
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Having eight columns on one or on each front.
About This Quiz
Do you appreciate classical architecture? This quiz will demonstrate the importance of classical architecture. It typically denotes architecture procured from Greek and Roman architecture principles of classical antiquity or Roman architect's works. Classical architecture is described as having perfect symmetry, practical order, and calm in much of the Western World. This quiz is a fine example of art appreciation.
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- 2.
Having 10 columns on one or on each front.
- 3.
Having six columns on one or each front.
Explanation
Hexastyle refers to a structure or building that has six columns on its front or on each of its fronts. This architectural term is derived from the Greek words "hexa" meaning six and "style" meaning column. It is commonly used to describe classical Greek and Roman temples that have six columns in the front. This design element adds symmetry and balance to the structure while also providing support.Rate this question:
- 4.
Having 12 columns on one or on each front.
Explanation
The given answer options, dodecastyle, dodecastylar, and duodecastyle, all refer to architectural styles that involve having 12 columns on either one or both sides of a structure's front. "Dodecastyle" specifically means having 12 columns on one side, while "dodecastylar" means having 12 columns on both sides. "Duodecastyle" also means having 12 columns on both sides, but it is a less commonly used term.Rate this question:
- 5.
The central part of a column or pier between the capital and the base.
Explanation
The central part of a column or pier between the capital and the base is referred to as the shaft. The shaft is typically a long, vertical section that connects the decorative upper portion of the column (capital) with the supporting lower portion (base). It is an important structural element that provides stability and bears the weight of the entablature or architrave above. The shaft can vary in design and may be smooth or adorned with decorative elements such as fluting or carvings, depending on the architectural style.Rate this question:
- 6.
The lowermost division of a classical entablature, resting directly on the colum capitals and supporting the frieze.
Explanation
The architrave is the lowermost division of a classical entablature. It rests directly on the column capitals and supports the frieze. This architectural element is typically a horizontal beam or lintel that spans the tops of the columns. It serves as a structural support and also provides a decorative element to the overall design of the entablature.Rate this question:
- 7.
The lowermost portion of a wall, column, pier, or other structure, usually distinctively treated and considered as an architectural unit.
Explanation
The term "base" refers to the lowermost portion of a wall, column, pier, or any other structure. It is typically given distinct treatment and is considered as an architectural unit. The base provides stability and support to the structure above it. It is an essential element in architectural design, both aesthetically and structurally.Rate this question:
- 8.
Name the parts of a column. 1. ________ 2. ________ 3. ________
Explanation
The parts of a column are the capital, shaft, and base. In this case, the correct answer is given three times, indicating that there are three parts to a column and they are all the same: capital, shaft, and base.Rate this question:
- 9.
The prominent circular molding supporting the abacus of a Doric or Tuscan capital.
Explanation
The echinus refers to the prominent circular molding that supports the abacus of a Doric or Tuscan capital. This architectural element can be found in classical Greek and Roman architecture. It adds visual interest and provides structural support to the capital, which is the top part of a column. The echinus is typically decorated with intricate patterns or motifs, further enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the capital.Rate this question:
- 10.
A slight convexity given to a column to correct an optical illusion of concavity if the sides were straight.
Explanation
Entasis refers to the slight convexity given to a column. This architectural technique is used to correct the optical illusion of concavity that would occur if the sides of the column were straight. By adding a gentle curve to the column, it creates a more visually pleasing and balanced appearance. This technique has been used in classical architecture to enhance the aesthetics and proportions of columns.Rate this question:
- 11.
The horizontal section of a classical order that rests on the columns, usually composed of a comice, frieze, and architrave.
Explanation
The entablature is the horizontal section of a classical order that rests on the columns. It is typically composed of three parts: the comice, frieze, and architrave. The comice is the decorative molding at the top, the frieze is the middle section usually adorned with sculptures or reliefs, and the architrave is the bottom part that directly rests on the columns. Together, these components make up the entablature, which is an important architectural element in classical design.Rate this question:
- 12.
The horizontal part of a classical entablature between the cornice and architrave, often decorated with sculpture in low relief.
Explanation
A frieze is the horizontal part of a classical entablature that is located between the cornice and architrave. It is often adorned with sculpture in low relief. The frieze serves as a decorative element in classical architecture, adding visual interest and artistic detail to the structure.Rate this question:
- 13.
The upper part of a column, just above the shaft and below the projecting part of the capital, when differentiated by a molding, groove, or the omission of fluting.
Explanation
Necking refers to the upper part of a column, specifically the section just above the shaft and below the projecting part of the capital. It is characterized by a molding, groove, or the absence of fluting. This term is used to describe the specific design element that distinguishes this area of the column from the rest.Rate this question:
- 14.
A large convex, semicircular molding, commonly found directly above the plinth of the base of a classical column.
Explanation
A torus is a large convex, semicircular molding that is typically located above the plinth of the base of a classical column. It is a decorative architectural element that adds visual interest and elegance to the column. The torus is characterized by its rounded shape and smooth surface, which creates a sense of curvature and flow. It is commonly used in classical architecture to enhance the overall aesthetic appeal of the column and the surrounding space.Rate this question:
- 15.
A cylindrical support in classical architecture, consisting of a capital, shaft, and usually a base, either monolithic or built up of drums the full diameter of the shaft.
Explanation
The given correct answer is "column". In classical architecture, a column is a cylindrical support structure that typically includes a capital (top), shaft, and base. It can be either monolithic (made from a single piece of material) or built up of drums (stacked sections) that have the same diameter as the shaft. Columns are an essential element in classical architecture, providing structural support and aesthetic appeal to buildings.Rate this question:
- 16.
The uppermost member of a classical entrablature, consisting typically of a cymatium, corona, and bed molding.
Explanation
A cornice is the uppermost member of a classical entablature, which is a horizontal structure above columns in classical architecture. It typically consists of a cymatium, which is a curved molding, a corona, which is a projecting molding, and a bed molding. The cornice serves as a decorative element and helps to transition between the vertical walls and the horizontal roof or ceiling.Rate this question:
- 17.
The flat slap forming the top of a column capital, plain in the Doric style, but molded or otherwise enriched in other styles.
Explanation
An abacus is a flat slab that forms the top of a column capital. In the Doric style, it is plain, but in other styles, it can be molded or enriched. The abacus serves as a transition between the column and the entablature, providing support and adding decorative elements to the capital. It is an important architectural feature found in various styles of columns and is used to distribute the weight of the entablature evenly.Rate this question:
- 18.
Any of the panels, either plain or decorated, between the triglyphs in the Doric frieze.
Explanation
The correct answer is metope, intertriglyph. In the Doric frieze, there are panels called metopes that are located between the triglyphs. These metopes can be either plain or decorated. The intertriglyph, on the other hand, refers to the space between two triglyphs. So, the correct answer includes both the metope and the intertriglyph as elements of the Doric frieze.Rate this question:
- 19.
A deep concave molding between two fillets.
Explanation
The correct answer is scotia. A scotia is a type of molding that has a deep concave shape between two fillets. It is commonly used in architecture and interior design to add decorative detail to walls, ceilings, or furniture. The term "trochilus" is not related to the given description and does not fit the context.Rate this question:
- 20.
The distinctively treated upper end of a column, pillar, or pier, crowning the shaft and taking the weight of the entablature or architrave.
Explanation
A capital is the top part of a column, pillar, or pier that supports the entablature or architrave. It is distinctively treated and designed to bear the weight of the structure above it. The capital is usually decorated or adorned in a way that distinguishes it from the rest of the column. It is an important architectural element that adds aesthetic appeal and provides structural support to the overall design of the column or pier.Rate this question:
- 21.
A rounded channel or groove.
Explanation
The correct answer is flute. A flute is a rounded channel or groove, often found in musical instruments or architectural designs. It can also refer to a type of musical instrument that is played by blowing air across a hole. "Stria" is not an appropriate term to describe a rounded channel or groove, making it an incorrect answer choice.Rate this question:
- 22.
A decorative motif consisting of a series of long, rounded, parallel grooves, as on the shaft of a classical column.
Explanation
Fluting is a decorative motif that is characterized by a series of long, rounded, parallel grooves. It is commonly found on the shaft of classical columns. This technique adds texture and visual interest to the column, giving it a more elegant and sophisticated appearance. The grooves are evenly spaced and create a sense of rhythm and repetition. Fluting is a hallmark of classical architecture and is often used to evoke a sense of grandeur and timelessness.Rate this question:
- 23.
A construction upon which a column, statue, memorial shaft, or the like, is elevated, usually consisting of a base, a dado, and a cornice or cap.
Explanation
A pedestal is a structure that is used to elevate and support columns, statues, memorial shafts, or similar objects. It typically consists of a base, a dado (a decorative panel), and a cornice or cap. The purpose of a pedestal is to provide a stable and visually appealing platform for the object it supports.Rate this question:
- 24.
Having an intercolumnation of three diameters.
Explanation
Diastyle refers to a type of architectural arrangement in which the intercolumnation (spacing between columns) is equal to three times the diameter of the columns. This term is commonly used in classical architecture to describe a specific column arrangement in a building or structure.Rate this question:
- 25.
One of the vertical blocks separating the metopes in a Doric frieze, typically having two vertical grooves or glyphs on its face, and two chamfers or hemiglyphs at the sides.
Explanation
A triglyph is a vertical block that is commonly found in a Doric frieze. It serves as a separator between the metopes and has two vertical grooves or glyphs on its face. Additionally, it has two chamfers or hemiglyphs on its sides.Rate this question:
- 26.
The most ornate of the five classical orders, developed by the Greeks in the 4th century BCE but used more extensively in Roman architecture, similar in most respects to the Ionic but usually of slenderer proportions and characterized esp. by a deep bell-shaped capital decorated with acanthus leaves and an abacus with concave sides.
Explanation
The Corinthian order is the most ornate of the five classical orders of architecture. It was developed by the Greeks in the 4th century BCE but was used more extensively in Roman architecture. It is similar to the Ionic order but usually has slenderer proportions. The defining feature of the Corinthian order is its deep bell-shaped capital, which is decorated with acanthus leaves. The abacus of the Corinthian order also has concave sides.Rate this question:
- 27.
A spiral, scroll-like ornament, as on the capitals of the Ionic, Corinthian, and Composite orders.
Explanation
A volute is a decorative element that is often found on the capitals of columns in architectural styles such as Ionic, Corinthian, and Composite orders. It is characterized by its spiral or scroll-like shape, which adds an ornamental touch to the design. The volute is a common feature in classical architecture and is used to enhance the aesthetic appeal of the structure.Rate this question:
- 28.
Any of five styles of classical architecture - Doric, Ionic, Corinthian, Tuscan, and Composite - characterized by the type and arrangement of columns and entablatures employed.
Explanation
The term "order" refers to any of the five styles of classical architecture, namely Doric, Ionic, Corinthian, Tuscan, and Composite. These styles are distinguished by the specific type and arrangement of columns and entablatures used. Each order has its own unique characteristics and proportions, which contribute to the overall aesthetic and structural design of a building. The choice of order can greatly impact the visual appeal and symbolic meaning of a structure.Rate this question:
- 29.
Having an intercolumnation of two and one fourth diameters.
- 30.
Any of several cylindrical stones laid one above the other to form a column or pier.
- 31.
An ornament, such as on the Corinthian capital, patterned after the large, toothed leaves of a Mediterranean plant of the same name.
Explanation
The correct answer is acanthus. The explanation for this is that the term "acanthus" refers to an ornament, specifically one that is patterned after the large, toothed leaves of a Mediterranean plant with the same name. This suggests that the ornament in question is designed to resemble the distinctive leaves of the acanthus plant.Rate this question:
- 32.
Having an intercolumnation of two diameters.
- 33.
A classical order that developed in the Greek colonies of Asia Minor in the 6th century BCE, characterized esp. by the spiral volutes of its capital. The fluted columns typically had molded bases and supported an entablature consisting of an architrave of three fascias, a richly ornamented frieze, and a cornice corbeled out on egg-and-dart and dentil moldings. Roman and Renaissance examples are often more elaborate, and usually set the volutes of the capital 45 degrees to the architrave.
Explanation
The correct answer for this question is the "ionic order". The description provided in the question matches the characteristics of the ionic order, which was a classical architectural style that emerged in the Greek colonies of Asia Minor in the 6th century BCE. The ionic order is known for its spiral volutes on the capital, fluted columns with molded bases, and an entablature consisting of an architrave, frieze, and cornice. Roman and Renaissance examples of the ionic order often featured more elaborate designs, with the volutes of the capital set at a 45-degree angle to the architrave.Rate this question:
- 34.
Having three columns on one or each front.
Explanation
Tristyle refers to a structure or design that has three columns on one or each front. This term is often used in architecture to describe buildings or facades that have three distinct columns in their design. The word "tri" indicates three, while "style" refers to the architectural style or design. Therefore, tristyle can be understood as a building or structure that features three columns on one or each of its front sides.Rate this question:
- 35.
A classical order of Roman origin, basically a simplified Roman Doric characterized by an unfluted column and a plain base, capital, and entablature having no decoration other than moldings.
Explanation
The Tuscan order is a classical order of Roman origin that is characterized by an unfluted column and a plain base, capital, and entablature. It is a simplified version of the Roman Doric order and lacks any decorative elements other than moldings. The Tuscan order is known for its simplicity and straightforward design, making it a popular choice in architecture.Rate this question:
- 36.
Having five columns on one or each front.
Explanation
Pentastyle refers to a structure or building that has five columns on its front. This term is derived from the Greek words "penta" meaning five and "style" meaning column. It is commonly used in architecture to describe a facade or portico with five columns arranged in a row. The prefix "penta-" is often used to indicate the number five, and "style" refers to the columnar elements of classical architecture. Therefore, pentastyle accurately describes a structure with five columns on its front.Rate this question:
- 37.
One of the three horizontal bands making up the architrave in the Ionic order.
Explanation
The term "fascia" refers to one of the three horizontal bands that make up the architrave in the Ionic order. In classical architecture, the architrave is the bottommost part of the entablature, which rests directly on top of the columns. The fascia is the middle band of the architrave, sandwiched between the lower band called the "taenia" and the upper band known as the "regula". It is a significant element in the design of Ionic order buildings and adds visual interest and detail to the overall structure.Rate this question:
- 38.
A fillet beneath the taenia in a Doric entrablature, corresponding to a triglyph above and from which guttae are suspended.
Explanation
The given answer is referring to the architectural elements of a Doric entablature. In this context, a regula is a fillet located beneath the taenia, which is a horizontal band. The regula corresponds to a triglyph, which is a decorative element, located above it. The guttae band is a row of small, decorative droplets that are suspended from the regula. Together, these elements create a visually pleasing and intricate design in the entablature.Rate this question:
- 39.
A narrow part of the surface of a column shaft left between adjoining flutes.
Explanation
A fillet refers to a narrow part of the surface of a column shaft that is left between adjoining flutes. This term is commonly used in architecture and design, particularly in reference to classical columns. The fillet serves to separate and define the flutes, creating a visually pleasing and structured appearance. It adds depth and detail to the column shaft, enhancing its overall aesthetic appeal.Rate this question:
- 40.
Having seven columns on one or each front.
Explanation
"Heptastyle" refers to a structure or building that has seven columns either on one side or on each of its fronts. The term is derived from the Greek words "hepta" meaning seven and "style" meaning column. This architectural feature was commonly used in ancient Greek and Roman architecture to create a sense of grandeur and symmetry.Rate this question:
- 41.
An ornamentral bracket, usually in the form of a scroll with acanthus, used in series beneath the corona of a Corinthian, Composite, or Roman Ionic cornice.
Explanation
A modillion is a type of decorative bracket that is typically shaped like a scroll with acanthus leaves. It is commonly used in a series beneath the corona of a Corinthian, Composite, or Roman Ionic cornice. The modillion adds ornamental detail and visual interest to the cornice, enhancing the overall architectural design.Rate this question:
- 42.
A spiral ornament, such as any of the volutes issuing from a cauliculus in a Corinthian capital.
Explanation
The given statement describes a spiral ornament that can be found in a Corinthian capital. This type of ornament is known as a helix. A helix is a three-dimensional curve that resembles a spiral, often seen in natural formations like DNA strands or the shape of a coiled spring. In this context, the volutes issuing from a cauliculus in a Corinthian capital refer to the spiral ornaments that are characteristic of the Corinthian architectural style. Therefore, the correct answer for this question is helix.Rate this question:
- 43.
Having an intercolumnation of one and a half diameters.
- 44.
A projecting flat block under the corona of a Doric cornice, corresponding to the modillion of other orders.
Explanation
A mutule is a projecting flat block that is found under the corona of a Doric cornice. It is similar to a modillion, which is a similar architectural element found in other orders. The mutule serves as a decorative and structural element, adding visual interest to the cornice while also providing support. It is a characteristic feature of the Doric order and helps to differentiate it from other architectural styles.Rate this question:
- 45.
The projecting, slablike member of a classical cornice, supported by the bed molding and crowned by the cymatium.
Explanation
A corona is a projecting, slablike member of a classical cornice. It is supported by the bed molding and is crowned by the cymatium. In architecture, a cornice is a decorative molding that is usually found at the top of a building or wall. The corona is a specific part of the cornice that extends outwards and adds visual interest to the overall design. It is an important element in classical architecture and is often used to enhance the appearance of buildings.Rate this question:
- 46.
A raised band or fillet separating the frieze from the architrave on a Doric entablature.
Explanation
The correct answer is "taenia, tenia". In architecture, a taenia or tenia is a raised band or fillet that separates the frieze from the architrave on a Doric entablature. It serves as a decorative element and adds visual distinction between the different sections of the entablature.Rate this question:
- 47.
The molding or group of molding immediately beneath the corona of a cornice.
Explanation
Bed molding is the correct answer because it refers to the molding or group of moldings that is located just beneath the corona of a cornice. This type of molding is typically used to provide a decorative transition between the cornice and the wall or ceiling. It is called "bed molding" because it is often installed horizontally, resembling a bed frame. Bed molding is commonly found in architectural and interior design, adding a finishing touch to the cornice and enhancing the overall aesthetic appeal of the space.Rate this question:
- 48.
The oldest and simplest of the five classical orders, developed in Greece in the 7th century BC and later imitated by the Romans, characterized by a fluted column having no base, a plain cushion shaped capital supporting a square abacus, and an entablature consisting of a plain architrave, a frieze of triglyphs and metopes, and a cornice, the corona of which has mutules on its soffit. The columns are more slender and usually have bases, the channeling is sometimes altered or omitted, and the capital consists of a bandlike necking, an echinus, and a molded abacus.
Explanation
The correct answer is the Doric order. This is the oldest and simplest of the five classical orders of architecture. It originated in Greece in the 7th century BC and was later adopted by the Romans. The Doric order is characterized by a fluted column with no base, a plain cushion-shaped capital supporting a square abacus, and an entablature consisting of a plain architrave, a frieze of triglyphs and metopes, and a cornice with mutules on its soffit. In later adaptations, the columns may have bases, the channeling may be altered or omitted, and the capital may consist of a bandlike necking, an echinus, and a molded abacus.Rate this question:
- 49.
The vertical guideline through the eye of a volute in an Ionic capital, from which the spiral form is determined.
Explanation
The correct answer is cathetus. In the context of the question, a cathetus refers to the vertical guideline through the eye of a volute in an Ionic capital. This guideline helps determine the spiral form of the volute.Rate this question:
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Nov 26, 2016Quiz Created by
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