Toreutic Art (from τορεύω, to bore through; or from τορός, clear, distinct). Sculpture; especially of metals, ivories, metallic castings in relief, &c. A long essay on the meaning of this word occurs in the works of De Quincy.
Tormentum, R. (1) (Torqueo, to twist.) A general term for such instruments as the balista, catapulta, onager, scorpio, &c., from the twisting of the strands of the ropes that were used as the string to the bow. (2) Torture. By the Greek law the evidence of slaves was always extracted by torture. In Rome free persons in humble circumstances were also subjected to it in cases of treason.
Tornus, Gr. and R. A lathe or potter’s wheel.
Torquatus, R. Wearing the Gallic TORQUE. Torquatus miles, a soldier who received such a collar as a reward, and wore it, not round the neck, but on the breast, like a decoration.
Torques, Gen. (torqueo, to twist). A necklace, or armlet, or collar of gold or other wire spirally twisted. (See Armilla, Monile, &c.)
Torse, Her. A crest-wreath. (See Orle.)
Torso, It. In Sculpture, the trunk regarded apart from the head and limbs. The celebrated Torso of Hercules, in the Vatican, by Apollonios, about 336 B.C., is said to have been the favourite inspiration of Michael Angelo. Another fine torso is that known as the Farnese, in the Naples Museum, representing probably a seated figure of Bacchus.
Torteau, Her. A red Roundle (q.v.).
Fig. 658. Tortoise. Device of the Duke of Tuscany.