Mæniana, Mænianæ Scholæ, R. Celebrated schools of Gaul founded by Augustus at Autun (Augustodunum or Bibracte), so called because the buildings were furnished with balconies (mæniana). (See Mænianum.)
Mænianum, R. A structure supported on corbels; a balcony projecting from the wall of a house; in a theatre or amphitheatre, one range of seats comprised between two landing-places (præcinctiones). Originally a balcony erected round the Roman forum, B.C. 318, to give accommodation to the spectators of gladiatorial contests. Afterwards balconies in general were so called.
Maes, Celt. A Welsh word for a field of battle, common in topographical nomenclature.
Mafil. (See Mahfil.)
Mafors or Mavors (Gr. μαφώριον) was a short veil covering the head and neck and flowing down on the shoulders, such as nuns wear in imitation of the Virgin Mary.
Magadis, Gr. (μάγαδις). A musical instrument invented by the Lydians; it was a kind of harp, which changed its form and was afterwards called Sambuca (q.v.). (See Lyra.)
Maghreb Pottery. (See Gargoulette.)
Magi. The adoration of the Magi (commemorated on Christmas Day) is the subject of some of the earliest specimens of Christian art. A fresco in the catacomb of St. Agnes, representing the Magi before Herod, is attributed to the 2nd century, and the mosaics of St. Maria Maggiore at Rome, in which the same subject occurs, are of the 5th century.
Magnase Black. A colour which dries rapidly when mixed with oil, and is of intense body.
Mahfil, Arab. A raised seat in a mosque, for the imaum mocri who reads the Koran, and for the imaum khatib, who recites prayer, preaches, and acts as the minister of the services generally.