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

Fig. 538. Persian Plaque, with polychrome decoration.

Persian Red. (See Indian Red.)

Persiana, It. (1) A silk with a pattern of large flowers. (2) Venetian blinds; Persiennes.

Persians, Gr. and R. (περσικά). Columns the shafts of which consist of figures of Persian slaves; they are also known as Persian columns.

Fig. 539. Persona comica.

Persona, Gr. and R. A mask worn by actors upon the stage; there were personæ tragicæ, comicæ (Fig. [539]), mutæ, &c., that is, masks for tragic, comic, or mute persons, &c. The custom is attributed to that of smearing the face with certain juices and colours, and appearing in disguise at the festivals of Dionysus; and is probably as old as the drama itself.

Perspective. The art of representing on a flat surface the appearance of objects from one given point of view. Linear perspective is the science by which the principles of geometry are applied in this art. (See Aerial and Isometrical Perspective.)

Pertica, R. A rod, pole, or stick; a foot, or measure of length divided into twelve inches (unciæ) and sixteen fingers (digiti).