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

Fig. 343. Fylfot.

Fylfot or Filfot. This mysterious ornament exactly resembles the Hindu arani of remote antiquity, i. e. the instrument of wood by which fire was obtained by friction; which is the symbol of Agni. This symbol has never been lost, and occurs sixty times on an ancient Celtic funereal urn; also on monumental brasses and church embroidery of the Middle Ages. It is generally called the Gammadion.

G.

Gabardine or Gallebardine, It. “A rough Irish mantle, or horseman’s coat; a long cassock.” It was, and is, a favourite outer garment of the Jews.

Gabion, Fortification. A basket filled with earth, used in the construction of earthworks for defensive purposes.

Gable, Arch. (German Giebel, point). The triangular end of a house from the eaves to the top.

Gablet. Diminutive of gable—applied to furniture and niches.

Gadlyngs, O. E. Spikes on the knuckles of gauntlets, like the modern “knuckle-dusters.”

Gæsum, R. A weapon of Celtic origin. It was a strong, heavy javelin with a very long barbed iron head, used rather as a missile than a spear.