Fan-tracery. In Gothic architecture, elaborate carved work spread over an arched surface, like a fan with the handle resting on a corbel or stone bracket below.
Fanum, R. (fari, to speak); Eng. Fane. A term synonymous with Templum (q.v.), but implying also the idea of a place which had been consecrated by the solemn formula of the augurs. The fanum thus comprised not only the building itself, the temple, but also all the consecrated ground surrounding it [“locus liberatus et effatus.”]
Farrago, R. (i. e. made of far, spelt). Fodder for horses and cattle, consisting of the green ears of different kinds of grain.
Fig. 304. Farthingale of the time of Elizabeth.
Farthingale (Fr. vertugale) is first spoken of in 1547. It was a sort of cage made of whalebone worn under the petticoat, increasing the size of the hips. In Elizabeth’s reign it reached to a preposterous size, giving the wearer the appearance of “standing in a drum,” according to “Sir Roger de Coverley.” There were wheel-farthingales and tub-farthingales. Farthingales were worn during the reign of Charles I., but of more moderate dimensions; and in Charles II.’s reign the fashion vanished to reappear in the hoop of the 18th century. The engraving gives an example of a moderate farthingale. (Fig. [304].)
Fartura, R. (farcio, to stuff). The act of fattening poultry; and thence applied to a kind of structure, the centre of which was filled with rubble.
Fasces. (See Fascis.)
Fig. 305. Roman lictor carrying the fasces.