An Illustrated Dictionary of Words used in Art and Archaeology / Explaining terms frequently used in works on architecture, arms, bronzes, Christian art, colour, costume, decoration, devices, emblems, heraldry, lace, personal ornaments, pottery, painting, sculpture, &c., with their derivations.

by John W. Mollett

Burgau. A univalve shell, Turbo marmoratus, producing a mother-of-pearl; and hence all works in mother-of-pearl, of whatever material, are called “burgau.” (Jacquemart.)

Burin. An instrument for engraving on copper.

Burnisher. A steel instrument used by engravers to soften lines or efface them. An agate is used to burnish gold.

Burnt Sienna. (See Sienna.)

Burnt Terra Verde. (See Green Earth.)

Burnt Umber. (See Umber.)

Burr, O. E. (1) The broad iron ring on a tilting-lance, just below the gripe, to prevent the hand slipping back. (2) Projecting defences at the front of a saddle. (Meyrick.) (3) The rough edge produced on the metal by an incised or etched line in an engraving.

Buskin. (See Cothurnus.)

Bustum, R. (buro, to burn). An open spot upon which a pyre was raised for burning the corpse of a person of distinction. When the area adjoined the burying-ground, it was called bustum; when it was separate from it, it was called ustrina.