Art History Vocabulary – Matching Converted to MCQs

Front

Which term matches the definition: of or relating to movable property.

Back

mobiliary

Answer explanation

The term 'mobiliary' specifically refers to movable property, distinguishing it from immovable property like real estate. Therefore, it is the correct choice that matches the given definition.

Front

Which term matches the definition: red crown of lower Egypt, contains the cobra goddess on the forehead.

Back

deshret

Answer explanation

The term 'deshret' refers to the red crown of Lower Egypt, which is often depicted with a cobra goddess on the forehead, symbolizing sovereignty and protection. This matches the definition provided in the question.

Front

Formal name for the white crown of pharaonic Upper Egypt.

Back

hedjet

Answer explanation

The term 'hedjet' refers specifically to the white crown of Upper Egypt, distinguishing it from 'deshret', which is the red crown of Lower Egypt. The other options do not represent the crown.

Front

Which term matches the definition: flat mound or stone pedestal upon which the moai stand.

Back

ahu

Answer explanation

The term 'ahu' refers to the flat mound or stone pedestal that supports the moai statues on Easter Island, making it the correct choice for this definition.

Front

Which term matches the definition: ornamental molding or band following the curve on the underside of an arch.

Back

archivolt

Answer explanation

The term 'archivolt' refers to the ornamental molding that follows the curve on the underside of an arch, making it the correct answer. The other options do not fit this specific architectural feature.

Front

Which term matches the definition: the side-post of a doorway.

Back

jamb

Answer explanation

The term 'jamb' refers to the vertical side-posts of a doorway, making it the correct answer. 'Trumeau' is the central post, 'flying buttress' is a support structure, and 'register' refers to a level or section.

Front

Which term matches the definition: a pointed oval feature enclosing figures such as Christ or Mary in medieval art.

Back

mandorla

Answer explanation

The term 'mandorla' refers to a pointed oval shape that often encloses sacred figures like Christ or Mary in medieval art, distinguishing it from other terms like 'rose window' or 'grisaille' which refer to different artistic elements.

Front

Which term matches the definition: projecting chapels arranged radially around the ambulatory of the east end of a Christian church.

Back

radiating chapel

Answer explanation

The term 'radiating chapel' refers to the projecting chapels arranged radially around the ambulatory at the east end of a Christian church, making it the correct answer. The other options do not fit this specific architectural feature.

Front

Which term matches the definition: the central pillar or mullion supporting the tympanum of a large doorway, common in medieval buildings, often sculpted.

Back

trumeau

Answer explanation

The term 'trumeau' refers to the central pillar supporting the tympanum of a large doorway, especially in medieval architecture. It is often elaborately sculpted, distinguishing it from other terms like jamb, buttress, and archivolt.

Front

Which term matches the definition: semi-circular decorative wall surface over an entrance, bounded by a lintel and arch, often with sculpture or ornament.

Back

tympanum

Answer explanation

The term 'tympanum' refers to the semi-circular decorative wall surface above an entrance, typically framed by a lintel and an arch, often adorned with sculptures or ornaments, making it the correct choice.