Entablature

Definition

An entablature is a horizontal structure that rests on columns and consists of three main parts: the architrave, frieze, and cornice. It serves not only as a decorative element but also as a structural component in classical architecture, particularly in the Doric and Ionic orders, linking the columnar support to the roof or upper stories of a building.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. In the Doric order, the entablature is more austere and less ornate compared to the Ionic order, reflecting the differing aesthetic values of these architectural styles.
2. The Parthenon features an entablature that showcases detailed carvings and inscriptions, emphasizing its cultural significance and architectural innovation.
3. Innovations in engineering allowed for greater complexity in entablature designs, leading to more elaborate cornices and friezes during this period.
4. Major architectural projects of ancient Greece often involved custom-designed entablatures that symbolized wealth and power of their patrons.
5. Construction methods for entablatures included careful selection of materials and precise alignment to ensure structural stability while maintaining aesthetic appeal.

Review Questions

• How do the characteristics of the entablature differ between the Doric and Ionic orders, and what does this reveal about the cultural values associated with each style?
  • The entablature in the Doric order is characterized by its simplicity and strength, reflecting values of austerity and functionality. In contrast, the Ionic order features a more ornate entablature with intricate details and decorative friezes, symbolizing elegance and artistic expression. This difference illustrates how each style embodies distinct cultural ideals—Doric emphasizing robustness and Ionic prioritizing beauty and delicacy.
• Discuss the role of the entablature in the design and symbolism of the Parthenon, highlighting its architectural significance.
  • The entablature of the Parthenon plays a crucial role in its overall design, serving as a link between the towering columns and the sculpted roof. The elaborate frieze includes intricate reliefs depicting mythological scenes that convey cultural narratives important to Athenian society. Symbolically, this grandeur reflects the power and influence of Athens at its peak, showcasing both artistic achievement and civic pride through its architectural elements.
• Evaluate how innovations in architectural design during ancient Greece influenced the development and construction techniques of entablatures in major projects.
  • Innovations such as advancements in mathematical precision and material use significantly influenced how entablatures were designed and constructed. The introduction of curved lines and proportions allowed for more dynamic forms within entablatures, enhancing their visual impact. These changes led to greater complexity in both decorative elements like cornices and functional aspects, ultimately resulting in structures that showcased not just engineering prowess but also a deep appreciation for aesthetic beauty in major architectural endeavors.

Related terms

Architrave:

The lowest part of an entablature that directly rests on the columns, acting as a beam that supports the frieze above.

Frieze: The middle section of an entablature, often decorated with reliefs or inscriptions, which serves as a visual link between the architrave and the cornice.

Cornice: The uppermost part of an entablature that projects outward, often adorned with decorative elements, serving to crown the structure below.