Fig. 463. Mirror-case of carved ivory—14th cent.
Mirror. In the Middle Ages mirrors were often enclosed in cases of metal or carved ivory. The example (Fig. [463]) gives a representation of the Siege of the Castle of Love from one of the romances of the period. (See Glass.)
Mirror, Arch. A small oval ornament cut into the deep mouldings, and separated by wreaths of flowers.
Miserere. A projecting bracket, on the sellette of a church stall, on which, when the seat was turned up, there was a leaning-space, available to the infirm during the parts of the service required to be performed standing. (See Sellette.)
Misericorde. The narrow-bladed dagger used to put the victory with sword or lance to the test, by obliging a fallen antagonist to cry for mercy, or by despatching him.
Mis’rha, Hind. Hindoo temples built with two kinds of materials; whence their name of mixed (mis’rha). (See Sud’ha, Vimana, and Sancira.)
Missilia, R. (i. e. things thrown). Presents of cheques or tickets thrown by the emperor and wealthy persons among the people. The cheques were payable to the bearer at the magazine of the donor. (See Congiarium.)
Mistarius, Mixtarius, R. Any vessel of large size used for mixing water with wine.
Mitella, Gr. (dimin. of mitra). (1) A head-band or coif of peaked form worn by Greek women. (2) A scarf used as a bandage or support for a broken arm.