Ovolo, Arch. (from the Latin ovum). (1) A convex moulding showing the quarter of a circle, and thence called quarter-round. (2) The echinus of the Doric capital. (3) An ornament composed of eggs, separated either by tongues (Fig. [277]) or by darts (Fig. [514]). (See Echinus.)
Fig. 514. Egg and dart moulding.
Fig. 515. Ovum. Egg-shaped balls.
Ovum, Egg, R. Conical egg-shaped balls which were placed upon the spina of a circus, on a stone table supported by four columns. (Fig. [515].) There was a second table at the other end of the spina, on which were placed small marble dolphins. Ovum Orphicum, or Orphic egg, was the mysterious symbol employed by Orpheus to denote the procreative principle with which the whole earth is pervaded. Ovum anguinum was an oval ball of glass worn by the Druids round their neck; so named because, as was asserted, it was produced from the mingled saliva of two serpents (angues).
Owl. With the Athenians the owl was the emblem of prudence and wisdom; the bird of Athenê. In Christian art it symbolizes darkness and solitude, and hence unbelief.
Ox. In Christian art the attribute of St. Luke; the emblem of the priesthood and of sacrifice. In representations of the Nativity an ox and an ass are commonly introduced.
Ox-gall. The bile or bitter fluid secreted by the liver of the ox; when refined it is used in oil and water-colour painting to fix and thicken the colours. (See Gall.)
Oxford Ochre. An oxide of iron used as a pigment of a brownish yellow in oil and water-colours. (See Ochre.)