Architectural Terminology Trivia Quiz

Answer: finial

The architrave, also known as the epistyle, is the lowest element of the entablature. The frieze, which is often decorated, is the middle section. The cornice is the upper-most element. A finial is an ornamental feature which terminates a gable, pinnacle, spire, etc.

Answer: an ornamental feature shaped like a spiraled scroll

Volutes are a fundamental feature of the Ionic order and resemble a rolled-up scroll or a ram's horns. They are found on the capitals of Ionic and Corinthian columns.

Answer: lucarne

A lucarne is a small dormer window.

Answer: tympanum

The intrados, also called the soffit, is the concave underside of an arch. The spandrel is the triangular area between the curve of an arch and the rectangular frame which supports it. Atlantes are figures of men used as supporting columns; caryatids are their female counterpart.

Answer: on a Doric frieze

A metope is the space, either decorated or unadorned, in between triglyphs on a Doric frieze.

Answer: paladian

A paladian window consists of a central arched window flanked by two rectangular windows. The other types are all circular windows.

Answer: a block on which a pedestal, column, or statue is placed

A post, often ornamental, at the bottom or at the landing of a staircase is called a newel-post. The horizontal beam over a door or window is called a lintel. A strip of wood or metal which separates and supports panes of glass in a window is called a muntin.

Answer: between the capital of a column and the architrave

An ornamented abacus adds a lot to the décor.

Answer: inglenook

An inglenook is a nook placed next to an open fireplace. Egg-and-dart is a series of egg-shaped figures alternating with another shape, often dart-like shapes-- thus the name. Vitruvian scroll is a running mold with wave-like patterns. Anthemion is a running ornamentation with alternating acanthus leaves and other foliage, usually honeysuckle or palmettes.

Answer: a wedge-shaped block used in constructing an arch or vault

The central voussoir is called a keystone. Thanks for playing! I hope that you enjoyed the quiz. If you find any errors, please bring them to my attention.