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

Jacob’s Staff, O. E. A pilgrim’s staff.

Jacobus. An English coin of James I., value 25s., weighing 6 dwt. 10 grains. The Carolus, a similar coin, value 23s., weighed 5 dwt. 20 grains.

Jaculatores, R. Soldiers armed with a javelin (jaculum), who formed part of the light troops of the Roman army.

Jade. Spanish piedra de la yjada. A green stone, closely resembling jasper, much used by prehistoric man, and to which supernatural virtues have in all ages been attributed, especially by the ancient Mexicans. Fine specimens of jades are carved in China, where they are of a whitish colour, and are called Yu. The clear white and green specimens are the most prized by collectors. (See Nephrite, Saussurite.)

Jagerant. (See Jazerine.)

Jamb, Arch. The side of any opening in a wall.

Jambe, Gambe, Her. The leg of a lion or other beast of prey.

Jambes. Armour for the legs; 14th century.

Janua, R. (Janus). The front door of a house opening on the street. The inner doors were called ostia, in the singular ostium, while the city gates were called portæ.

Januales, Janualia, R. Festivals held at Rome, in honour of Janus, on the first or kalends of January in each year; the offerings consisted of incense, fruits, and a cake called janual.