Ostinati. An Italian literary academy, whose device was a pyramid blown from all quarters by the winds, with the obstinate motto, “Frustra” (in vain).
Ostium, R. A lobby inside the entrance door of a Roman house, deep enough to contain a small porter’s lodge on one side, and leading to an inner door which opened on the Atrium. The street door was called Janua. (See Domus.)
Ostrich Eggs, Chr. The practice of suspending eggs of ostriches in churches was probably introduced from the East by Crusaders.
“In some churches two eggs of ostriches, and other things which cause admiration, and which are rarely seen, are accustomed to be suspended: that by their means the people may be drawn to church, and have their minds the more affected.” (Durandus on Symbolism.)
Ostrum, R. A purple colour used by the ancients, produced from the juice of the murex fish.
Othone, Chr. (See Stole.)
Ottone, It. Brass.
Oubliettes, Fr. Subterranean dungeons, into which prisoners were thrown to be oubliés (forgotten). The side walls were in some cases armed with strong sharp blades, which cut the victims to pieces as they fell. It should be mentioned that in many cases cesspools have been mistaken for oubliettes.
Ouch or Nouche, O. E. An ornament of the brooch kind; a jewel. (Mod.) The setting of a precious stone.
Oudenardes. Tapestry landscapes first made at that place; called also “tapisseries de verdure.”