Entablature

Entablatures at Caesarea Maritima
Entablature at the Temple of Venus Genetrix, Rome

An entablature (/ɛnˈtæbləər/; nativization of Italian intavolatura, from in "in" and tavola "table")[1] is the superstructure of moldings and bands which lies horizontally above columns, resting on their capitals. Entablatures are major elements of classical architecture, and are commonly divided into the architrave (the supporting member immediately above; equivalent to the lintel in post and lintel construction), the frieze (an unmolded strip that may or may not be ornamented), and the cornice (the projecting member below the pediment).[1] The Greek and Roman temples are believed to be based on wooden structures, the design transition from wooden to stone structures being called petrification.

  1. ^ a b  One or more of the preceding sentences incorporates text from a publication now in the public domainChisholm, Hugh, ed. (1911). "Entablature". Encyclopædia Britannica. Vol. 9 (11th ed.). Cambridge University Press. p. 654.