A marble frieze is a distinct architectural element, specifically a frieze, which is crafted using marble as the primary material.
Understanding the Frieze in Architecture
In classical architecture, the frieze /friːz/ is the wide central section of an entablature, positioned above the architrave and below the cornice. The entablature itself is a major horizontal element that caps a wall or sits immediately below a roof structure. The frieze is a significant visual component of this structure.
According to architectural definitions, the frieze may be plain in the Ionic or Doric order, offering a simple, unadorned surface. Alternatively, it may be decorated with bas-reliefs, showcasing carved sculptural scenes or patterns that project slightly from the background. Additionally, Paterae are also usually used to decorate friezes. Paterae are round, often dish-like or floral ornaments commonly used in classical decoration.
The Significance of Marble
When a frieze is made of marble, it is referred to as a marble frieze. Marble, a metamorphic rock prized for its beauty, durability, and ability to be carved with intricate detail, has been a favored material for architectural and sculptural elements since antiquity. Using marble for a frieze elevates its aesthetic value and permanence.
Decoration Styles
Marble friezes can follow the traditional decorative styles mentioned in the definition of a frieze:
| Decoration Style | Description | Appearance |
|---|---|---|
| Plain | Smooth, undecorated surface. | Often found in simpler, classical orders like Doric. |
| Decorated | Features carvings, often in bas-relief. | Can depict mythological scenes, processions, or patterns. |
| With Paterae | Includes round decorative elements (Paterae). | Often combined with other decorative elements or used alone. |
Marble's properties make it ideal for both achieving a smooth, polished plain surface and for carving detailed bas-reliefs and paterae.
Examples of Marble Friezes
Some of the most famous architectural friezes are made of marble, showcasing the material's enduring appeal and versatility. A prime example is the Parthenon Frieze in Athens, a celebrated marble bas-relief sculpture decorating the upper part of the cella walls of the Parthenon. This iconic example demonstrates the potential for narrative and artistic expression in a marble frieze.
In essence, a marble frieze applies the classical architectural concept of a frieze, with its specific location and potential for decoration (plain, bas-reliefs, paterae), using the noble and enduring material of marble.
