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

Lictor, R. (See Fasces.)

Lieberkuhn. A reflecting mirror on a microscope, named after the inventor.

Lierne Rib (in a vault), Arch. (From lier, to bind.) “Any rib that does not arise from the impost, and is not a ridge rib, but crosses from one boss or intersection of the principal ribs to another. Vaults in which such liernes are employed are termed LIERNE VAULTS.” (Parker’s Glossary.)

Light Red. A pigment of a russet orange tint, produced from burnt ochre.

Lights. The openings between the mullions of a window. (See Days.)

Fig. 424. Ligula.

Ligula, R. (1) A small tongue-shaped sword. (Fig. [424].) The term is derived from lingua, a tongue. (2) A liquid measure, a large spoonful, distinguished from cochlear, which is a small spoonful. (3) The leather tongue of a shoe.

Lilies, in Christian art, are the symbols of purity; the special attribute of the Virgin Mary. They are frequent in the catacombs on the tombs of Christian virgins.

Lily or Iris Green (It. verde giglio). A pigment anciently used in Italy. It was prepared by dipping linen rags into the juice of plants, and then preserving them dry.