Frontispiece (architecture)

The tracery of the Saint George Chapel, at the Palau de la Generalitat de Catalunya in Barcelona depicts smaller frontispieces framing windows and side entrances commonly known as pediments.

In architecture, the term frontispiece is used to describe the principal face of the building, usually referring to a combination of elements that frame and decorate the main or front entrance of a building.[1] The earliest and most notable variation of frontispieces can be seen in Ancient Greek Architecture[2] which features a large triangular gable, known as a pediment, usually supported by a collection of columns. However, some architectural authors have often used the term "frontispiece" and "pediment" interchangeably in reference to both large frontispieces decorating the main entrances, as well as smaller frontispieces framing windows which is traditionally known as a pediment.[3]

Frontispieces in pre-20th century architecture were considered decorative and ornamental structures used predominantly to dignify the façades of the building rather than for any structural or practical purpose.[4] With the proliferation of minimalistic ideas in 21st century architecture, a large emphasis is placed on simplicity and practicality when designing the façades of buildings.[5] Traditional decorative frontispieces are rarely used in the designing of post-modern buildings.

Frontispieces from different eras can be distinguished by the different variations of pediments used (triangular, segmented, open or broken pediments),[6] as well as the ornamentation of the columns corresponding to a particular architectural era.

  1. ^ Cite error: The named reference Complete Dictionary of Arts and Sciences was invoked but never defined (see the help page).
  2. ^ Cite error: The named reference :3 was invoked but never defined (see the help page).
  3. ^ "Frontispiece Encyclopedia.com". www.encyclopedia.com. Retrieved 2022-05-25.
  4. ^ Cite error: The named reference :0 was invoked but never defined (see the help page).
  5. ^ "Ornamentation in Contemporary Architecture - Rethinking The Future". RTF | Rethinking The Future. 2020-05-06. Retrieved 2022-05-26.
  6. ^ Cite error: The named reference :2 was invoked but never defined (see the help page).