Moulding.—A term applied to all varieties of contour or outline given to the angles, projections, or recesses of the various parts of a building. The object being either to produce an outline satisfactory to the eye; or, more frequently, to obtain a play of light and shade, and to produce the appearance of a line or a series of lines, broad or narrow, and of varying intensity of lightness or shade in the building or some of its features.
The contour which a moulding would present when cut across in a direction at right angles to its length is called its profile.
The profile of mouldings varied with each style of architecture and at each period (Figs. [w to z]). When ornaments are carved out of some of the moulded surfaces the latter are technically termed enriched mouldings. The enrichments in use varied with each style and each period, as the mouldings themselves did.
Mullion.—The upright bars of stone frequently employed (especially in Gothic architecture) to subdivide one window into two or more lights.
Nave.—(1) The central avenue of a church or cathedral; (2) the western part of a church as distinguished from the chancel or choir; (3) occasionally, any avenue in the interior of a building which is divided by one or more rows of columns running lengthways is called a nave.
Necking (of a column).—The point (usually marked by a fillet or other small projecting moulding) where the shaft ends and the capital begins.
Newel Post.—The stout post at the foot of a staircase from which the balustrade or the handrail starts.
