Distance. In a picture, the point of distance is that where the visual rays meet; middle distance is the central portion of a picture, between the foreground and the extreme distance.
Distemper. A kind of painting in which the pigments are mixed with an aqueous vehicle, such as size. Distemper is painted on a dry surface. (See Fresco-painting.)
Ditriglyph, R. (δὶς, twice, and τρίγλυφος). The space between two triglyphs in the Doric order. The term is therefore a synonym of Metope (q.v.).
Dividers. Ordinary compasses for taking off and transferring measurements.
Dividiculum, R. A reservoir in the form of a tower, in which the water of an aqueduct was collected, and whence it was afterwards distributed. (See Castellum.)
Docana (δοκὸς, a beam). An ancient Spartan symbol of Castor and Pollux. It consisted of two upright beams, with cross pieces.
Doccia. An important Italian manufactory of soft porcelain founded in 1735. Jacquemart says, “Doccia now inundates Europe with spurious majolica of the 16th century, and with false porcelain of Capo di Monte, of which she possesses the moulds.”
Dodecahedron, Gr. A solid figure of twelve equal sides.
Dodecastyle, Gr. and R. (δώδεκα, twelve, and στῦλος, pillar). A building, the arrangement of which admits of twelve columns in front. A dodecastyle pediment is a pediment supported by twelve columns.
Dodra, R. (dodrans, nine parts). A kind of beverage, or rather soup, composed of nine ingredients. We learn from Ausonius that it was made of bread, water, wine, oil, broth, salt, sweet herbs, honey, and pepper.