Which term describes the horizontal element resting on columns?

Which term describes the horizontal element resting on columns?

• A. Entablature
• B. Architrave
• C. Pediment
• D. Cornice

Answer: (A)

The horizontal element resting on the tops of columns is called the entablature. In classical architecture, this continuous band sits directly above the capitals and spans across the façade, forming the upper portion of the order. It is made up of three parts: the architrave as the lowest band, the frieze as the middle section, and the cornice as the upper projecting molding. The pediment sits above the entablature as a triangular gable, not as the horizontal element itself. The architrave, while resting on the capitals, is only a component of the entablature, and the cornice is the top part of that same horizontal framework. Hence, entablature is the correct term for the horizontal element that rests on columns.

The horizontal element resting on the tops of columns is called the entablature. In classical architecture, this continuous band sits directly above the capitals and spans across the façade, forming the upper portion of the order. It is made up of three parts: the architrave as the lowest band, the frieze as the middle section, and the cornice as the upper projecting molding. The pediment sits above the entablature as a triangular gable, not as the horizontal element itself. The architrave, while resting on the capitals, is only a component of the entablature, and the cornice is the top part of that same horizontal framework. Hence, entablature is the correct term for the horizontal element that rests on columns.