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Design Elements > Motifs > Acroteria

Preferred term

Acroteria  

Definition

  • A decorative element used as a finial on the pediment of a temple, placed on the pediment, in the center and at the corners. They are usually in the form of floral designs, tripods, monsters, men, etc. In classical Greek temples, the term refers to the stone pedestal on which statues, palmettes, flowerpots, fantastic animals (sphinxes, chimeras), etc., were placed at the apex or lower corners of a pediment. In ancient Rome, on the other hand, acroteria included both the pedestal and the decorative element it supported. Later, it was designated strictly for ornamental elements.

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URI

https://data.arxiuvalencia.eu/vocabulary/c_801191b7

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