Art History Ch 1-4 Vocab

Early roofing technique that results in a high, almost pointed arch.

Circular area enclosed by stones or wood posts set up by Neolithic people. Bounded by a ditch and raised enbankments.

architectural system of construction with two or more vertical elements supporting a horizontal element.

• Paiting: the process of creating the illusion of 3dimensionality on a two dimension surface.
• In sculpture: process of molding a 3dimensional form out of a malleable substance.

Early form of writing with wedge shaped marks impressed into wet clay with a stylus. Primarily used by ancient Mesopotamians.

Use of different sizes for powerful or holy figures and for ordinary people to indicate relative importance in art. Large figure = great importance.

Method of casting metal, such as bronze. Wax mold is covered with clay and plaster, then fired, melting the wax and leaving a hollow form. Molten metal is poured into the hollow and slowly cooled. When the shell is removed, a solid metal form remains to be polished.

Group of buildings used for living and governing by a ruler and his/her supporters. Usually fortified .

Device used in systems of spatial definition

3d image or design whose flat background surface is carved away to a certain depth

Stone slab placed vertically and decorated with inscriptions or reliefs. Used as a grave marker.

Image created as a devotional offering to a god or other deity.

Mesopotamian stepped tower of earthen materials, often supporting a shrine.