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

Tripod (Gr. τρί-πους). A vessel or table on three feet; esp. the slab at Delphi upon which the priestess of Apollo sat. (See Delphica, Cortina.)

Tripping, Her. In easy motion, as a stag.

Fig. 664. Triptych carved in ivory with open doors.

Triptych (τρί-πτυχος, three-fold). A form of picture, generally for ecclesiastical purposes, in three panels; a centre, and two hanging doors worked on both sides. (Fig. [664].)

Tripudium, R. The noise made by the grain as it fell from the beaks of the sacred chickens on to the ground; it was looked upon by the priest as a favourable omen; another name for it was terripavium (striking the earth). (See Auspicium.)

Triquetra, Arch. A symmetrical interlaced ornament of early northern monuments. An endless line forming three arcs symmetrically interlaced will describe the figure.

Trireme, R. (tres, and remus, oar). A galley with three banks of rowers.

Trisomus, Chr. (τρί-σωμος). A triple sarcophagus. (Cf. Bisomus.)

Trispastus, R. (τρί-σπαστος, drawn three-fold). A block for raising weights; of three pullies (orbiculi), set in a single block (trochlea).