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

Fala, R. A wooden tower used in the siege of a fortified place, but the exact form of which is unknown; it differed from the Acrobaticon.

Falarica or Phalarica, R. A heavy spear, used by the Saguntines, which was generally discharged from a balista. Its shaft was sometimes enveloped with sulphur and resin, and with tow steeped in oil; and it was launched blazing against wooden towers for the purpose of setting them on fire.

Falbala. (See Furbelow.)

Falcastrum, R. (falx, a sickle). An agricultural tool with a curved blade for tearing up weeds.

Falcatus, R. Furnished with scythes (falces). (See Currus.)

Falchion. A broadsword, spelt “fawchon;” 14th century. (See Falx.)

Falcicula. Dimin. of falx.

Falcon, in mediæval art, is the attribute of a gentleman, in allusion to the restrictions of the sumptuary laws.

Falcula. Dimin. of falx.

Faldestol, O. E. An elbow-chair of state; modern “fauteuil.” (See Faldstool.)