Stencil. A plate of any material in which patterns have been cut out. The use of stencil plates is of great antiquity. They were used in the schools of ancient Rome to teach writing, and by the emperors for affixing their sign manual to documents.
Stereobate. The base of a plain wall. (See Stylobates.)
Stereochromy. A new method of wall painting, with water-colours sprinkled over with fluoric acid, adapted permanently to resist all the influences of climate.
Stereo-graphy (στερεὸς, solid). Geometrical drawing of solids on a plane surface.
Stereoscope. A binocular glass, arranged in conformity with the natural convergence of the sight of each eye to a focal centre. An object is photographed twice, as it would appear to each eye if the other were closed; and when the two pictures are looked at together in the stereoscope, an effect of rounded solidity (stereon) is produced. The effect is particularly beautiful in photographs of statues.
Stereotype. Solid type, obtained from a cast of the forme of movable type, for permanent use in printing works of which many editions are required.
Steyre, O. E. A stair.
Stiacciato, Ital. Sculpture in very low relief, less than basso-relievo.
Stibadium, Gr. and R. (στιβάδιον). A circular dining-couch generally made of wicker-work. Another name for it was Sigma.
Sticharium, Chr. (στιχάριον). A white tunic worn by the Greek bishops and deacons in certain ceremonies.