Tympanum (architecture)

For other uses, see Tympanum (disambiguation).
The late Romanesque tympanum of Vézelay Abbey, Burgundy, France, 1130s

A tympanum (pl.: tympana; from Greek and Latin words meaning "drum") is the semi-circular or triangular decorative wall surface over an entrance, door or window, which is bounded by a lintel and an arch.[1] It often contains pedimental sculpture or other imagery or ornaments.[2] Many architectural styles include this element.[3]

Alternatively, the tympanum may hold an inscription, or in modern times, a clock face.

  1. ^ "Glossary - Tympanum". Architecture of the Indian Subcontinent. Archived from the original on 2012-03-06. Retrieved 2007-06-28.
  2. ^ "Glossary of Medieval Art and Architecture - tympanum". University of Pittsburgh. Archived from the original on 2018-01-16. Retrieved 2007-06-23.
  3. ^ "Illustrated Architecture Dictionary - Tympanum". www.buffaloah.com. Archived from the original on 2014-06-22. Retrieved 2014-04-12.