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

Walling Wax. The composition with which etchers make a wall round the plate upon which they are proceeding to pour the acid. (See Engraving.)

Walnut, Chr. In Christian iconography the walnut is the symbol of perfection. (See Nut.)

Walnut Oil. (See Nut Oil.)

Wambais (Saxon wambe, the belly). A stuffing of wool in the quilted tunic or Gambeson. The best illustration is the conventional figure of Punch.

Wampum, North American Indian. Strings of shells worn as belts and used for money.

Wang, Chinese. Yellow. The sacred colour.

Wapentake, O. E. A hundred, or district. The term is derived from weapon-taking (or counting).

Wapinshaw, O. E. A review of weapons.

“Et fiat visus armorum, quod dicitur Wapinschaw.”

(Scotch Statute.)