A recess for the reception of a statue, to give it emphasis, frame it effectively and afford protection; one of the cbief characteristics of Gothic architecture. Sculpture was introduced in the Romanesque period, but the frame was little more than the flanking shaft supporting an arch. The Gothic builders realized that sculpture to be architectural must be incorporated with the building. This was done by the canopied niche which also protected the statue and produced a rich composition of line, light, and shade. The wall was recessed and a pedestal added. In the 14th and 15th centuries the canopy was elaborately decorated.
This dictionary contains not only definitions and explanations of every subject in Religion, Scripture, tradition, doctrine, morals, sacraments, rites, customs, devotions and symbolism, but also accounts of the Church in every continent, country, diocese; missions, notable Catholic centers, cities, and places with religious names; religious orders, church societies, sects and false religions. It has brief articles also on historical events and personages, on the Old Testament and New, and on popes, prelates, priests, men and women of distinction, showing what the Church has done for civilization and correcting many errors which have hitherto passed for history.Wikipedia
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