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

Balance or Scales. In Christian symbolism the balance symbolizes the Last Judgment. The Scales and Sword are also, generally, the attribute of personified Justice.

Balandrana. A large cloak, of the 12th and 13th centuries.

Balayn, O. E. Whalebone for crests of helmets.

Baldachin, It. A canopy of wood, stone, or metal over seats and other places of honour, common also over fireplaces and beds, and carried in coronation and other processions over the most honoured persons.

Baldric, Baudrier, or Baudrick, O. E. A girdle or sash, usually a belt of leather, and worn over the shoulder. They were sometimes hung with bells. (See Balteus.)

Balea, Balia, Med. Lat. (from βάλλω, to throw). (1) A sling. (2) A ballista. From their skill in the use of slings, the inhabitants of Majorca, Minorca, and Ivica had the appellation Baleares.

Bales, O. E. (Lat. balascus; Fr. balais). An inferior kind of ruby.

Baleyn. (See Balayn.)

Balista. (See Ballista.)

Balista a pectore, Med. Lat. A hand cross-bow.