Pinakes | Πίνακες

Résumé :

Abstract: Decorative stone sculpture is one of the most enduring and prestigious forms of decoration in Byzantine buildings of all kinds and from the empire’s whole history. Whether serving as support critical to infrastructure, or as pure adornment, this sculpture was a hallmark of the Byzantine architectural tradition. Often, it indicated the highest levels of patronage. Sculpted stone elements used in the decoration of buildings often included columns, capitals, and entablature blocks; moldings; cornices; window and door frames; fountains; sarcophagi and architectonic frames for arcosolia, or niche tombs; furnishings, including church altars, ciboria, ambos, baptismal fonts, and templon screens, as well as domestic items such as tables, seating, and shelving; and decorated stone panels displaying dedicatory or commemorative inscriptions.