Question

Roman facades were often composed using the __________ motif, in which an arch is surrounded by engaged columns and an entablature.

Option 1: Corinthian
Option 2: Doric
Option 3: Ionic
Option 4: Composite

Answer 1

The Roman facades typically used the Composite motif, combining the acanthus leaves of the Corinthian order with Ionic volutes, representing Roman architectural innovation.

Step-by-step explanation:

Roman facades were often composed using the Composite motif, in which an arch is surrounded by engaged columns and an entablature. This architectural style combines elements from the Ionic and Corinthian orders, often featuring the acanthus leaf motifs of the Corinthian order along with the scroll-like volutes of the Ionic order. The Composite order is considered the most ornate of the classical orders and was a development of the Romans, symbolizing their achievements in architecture and engineering.