What Is Entablature Architecture?

What Is Entablature Architecture?

Entablature architecture is a distinctive form of classical architecture that consists of three main elements: the architrave, the frieze, and the cornice.

The architrave is a continuous band that initiates the entablature structure by lying between the capitals of columns and supporting them.

The frieze presents a sequence of decorated reliefs above the architrave, providing visual interest to the entablature.

Lastly, the cornice projects outwards from the upper part of the frieze, waterproofing it and serving as an ornamental finish for many entablature structures.

Together with columns, these components make up a powerful type of construction found in many monumental buildings throughout history, such as Greek temples or Roman triumphal arches.

What Is The Purpose Of Entablature?

The purpose of the entablature is twofold: it provides structural support for connecting columns, roofing, and other architectural features, as well as decorating the exterior walls with elaborate designs.

Beyond mere decoration, however, many entablatures feature detailed carvings and sculptures that tell stories from the era in which they were built; this aspect of the entablature can be considered a form of cultural history embedded in built architecture.

In summary, the entablature serves both practical and decorative purposes by providing structural integrity to a building while also being a canvas for artistic expression.

What Is The Height Of The Entablature?

The entablature is generally about one-fourth of the column height, regardless of the order of the column: be it Doric, Ionic, or Corinthian. This height relationship has been maintained in both Roman and Renaissance interpretations.

The entablature consists of three parts: architrave, frieze, and cornice which together form the horizontal structure that sits atop columns to give a unified look to a building’s exterior.

What Are The Three Parts Of An Entablature?

An entablature is a classical architectural feature comprised of three distinct parts: the architrave, frieze, and cornice.

The architrave forms the base of the entablature and is the lowest of its three components; it is an undecorated lintel resting upon the columns and providing structural support.

Above this lies the frieze which is usually decorated with either ornamental carvings or a continuous band of inscriptions or figures.

Finally, at the top sits the cornice, a projecting moulding that crowns an entablature and serves to highlight its exterior appearance. Together, these three elements constitute an entablature and are often used as ornamentation in many additional architectural designs.

Where Is Entablature Found?

Entablature can be found above the columns of a structure, playing an important role in its overall appearance and structural integrity.

It is composed of three distinct parts – the architrave which rests directly on top of the columns, the frieze which typically contains decorative carvings and inscriptions, and the cornice which forms the uppermost part of the entablature and helps to support or accentuate roof lines.

Entablature not only provides an aesthetic element to a structure but also serves as a base for supporting its roof as it acts as a horizontal lintel that helps to spread loads across multiple columns.