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

Peridot, Fr. A yellow gem supposed to be the topaz of the ancients.

Peridromê, Gr. and R. (περι-δρομὴ, a running round). A gallery or covered promenade which ran round a temple or other building.

Perigee. Near the earth; figuratively “at its lowest.”

Perihelion. Near the sun; figuratively “at its highest.”

Perimeter. The outline of a rectilinear figure.

Peripatetics. Disciples of Aristotle, who walked about during his lectures in the Lyceum at Athens.

Peripetasma (περι-πέτασμα). A general term including anything that is flat and hung up or spread out, such as a covering, tapestry, hangings, curtains, &c.

Periphery, Gr. and R. (περι-φέρεια). (1) The circumference of a curvilinear figure. (2) Ornaments in relief executed on the sides of vases, running round them. (See Crustæ.)

Fig. 535. Ground-plan of a pseudo-peripteral temple.