Entablature
The entire unit of horizontal members above the columns or
pilasters in classical architecture; Greek, Roman or Renaissance. The height
of the entablature in relation to the column supporting it varies with the
three orders, Doric, Ionic, and Corinthian, but in Roman and Renaissance
interpretations it is generally about one fourth the column height. The
entablature's component members are the architrave , which rests
directly upon the abacus, or top member of the column cap; the frieze ;
and the cornice , or topmost member.
Cornice - the uppermost component of the
3-part entablature, resting on the other two components, the architrave (the
bottom most portion) and the frieze (the middle portion), forming a continuous
eave
Cornice of Palazzo Medici, Florence
Frieze - the middle component of the
entablature, resting on the architrave and below the cornice
Frieze from the Acropolis, now in the British Museum
Architrave - A beam or lintel spanning the
distance between columns or piers; the lowest member of the entablature.
The architrave rests on the capitals of columns or piers and supports the
frieze. Also, the trim of a door or window opening.
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