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

Laurel, Gen. The emblem of glory and victory. Sacred also to Apollo. In modern times an emblem of peace.

Lautumiæ, R. (λα-τομία). A stone-quarry, and thence a prison hewn out of a quarry, more particularly the public prison of Syracuse, hewn into the solid cliff, but roofless. The Tullianum at Rome was called Lautumiæ also.

Lava. The scoria from an active volcano, which is well adapted to ornamental carving.

Lavabo. (See Lavatorium.)

Lavacrum, R. (lavo, to wash). A bath of hot or cold water, in contradistinction to a vapour bath (caldarium).

Lavatorium, R. (lavo, to wash). A small building in a monastery, in which the monks washed their hands before and after a repast. The lavatorium was usually placed near the refectory.

Lawn. This fine linen fabric was introduced in the reign of Queen Elizabeth.

Lay Figure. A large wooden jointed doll, used by artists to display drapery.

Lead-glazed Wares. (See Pottery.)