barrel-vault
vaulted, semi-cylindrical construction used often as roof.
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bema
The area at east end of the naos in Byzantine churches, containing the altar, also referred to as the presbetery or hierateion (sanctuary). In these area take place the Holy Eucharist.
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chiton, the
Item of clothing consisting of a square woollen textile seamed on both sides.
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codex
Manuscript of papyrus, parchment or paper bound according to the form of a today book. The most common type of book during the medieval period. In the 4th century it replaced the roll thanks to its facilities: the codex could be easily opened to any page, the text could be written on both sides of the sheet and was better perserved.
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crux gemmata
Cross decorated with precious stones. Its rich decoration symbolises the triumph of christianity and its cult is developed especially after the finding of the True Cross by Helena in Jerusalem in 327.
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Deesis
Iconographic theme, an image of intercession for the salvation of the human race, which represents Jesus as the central figure, between the Virgin and St. John the Baptist
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himation, the
Rectangular woolen (mainly) cloth that was worn over the chiton (cloak). It could be wrapped around the shoulders and the body in different ways and was fastened with a belt or with brooches.
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medallion
In byzantine painting the term indicates the circle containing representations of the busts of holy figures, floral or geometrical patterns as well as inscriptions.
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mortar, the
Liquidised paste consisting of soil, water, sand or marble. It is used as binding material between rocks or plinths. Thus, it assures stability and protection of mansory.
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naos (nave)
The main part of the temple, between the narthex and the bema. It was the place where the congregation took part in the liturgy.
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proplasmos
The first colour applied on the painted surface, the dark colour base on which the painter will work all the lighter tones.
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scroll
A long and narrow parchment rolled around a wooden pole.
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terminus ante quem (lat.)
Technicality of historical studies for expressing the chonological line, before which an event took place.
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