Barytes. A heavy spar, or sulphate, the white varieties of which are ground and made into paint (constant or Hume’s white). Mixed with an equal quantity of white lead, it produces Venice white, and with half as much “Hamburg,” or with one-third “Dutch” white.
Basalt is a very hard stone, much like lava in appearance, and black or green in colour, used for statuary. The principal specimens are Egyptian and Grecian.
Basanos, Gr. (1) (Lat. lapis Lydius) The touchstone; a dark-coloured stone on which gold leaves a peculiar mark. Hence (2) trial by torture. (3) A military engine, the form of which is not exactly known.
Bascauda, R. A basket, introduced from Britain as a table utensil, considered as an object of luxury. It was the old Welsh “basgawd,” and served to hold bread or fruits.
Bascinet. A light helmet, round or conical, with a pointed apex, and fitting close to the head, mentioned in the 13th century.
Bascule, O. E. (1) The counterpoise to a drawbridge. (2) A kind of trap-door. (A badge of the Herbert family.)
Fig. 69. Ionic Base.
Base, Arch. The lower part of a pillar, wall, &c.; the division of a column on which the shaft is placed. The Grecian Doric order has no base.
Base. Her. The lowest extremity.