antependium
Definition
Noun: An "antependium" is a decorative covering or hanging for the front of an altar, typically used in Christian liturgical contexts. It is often made of rich fabric, embroidery, or metalwork and serves both ornamental and symbolic purposes.
Usage Examples
- (A decorative altar hanging with religious imagery.)
- (The altar covering is altered according to the liturgical calendar.)
Advanced Usage
- "Antependium" is a specialized term primarily used in ecclesiastical art, architecture, and liturgy. It is distinct from a "frontal," though the terms are sometimes used interchangeably; however, "antependium" often refers specifically to the hanging or panel that covers the front face of the altar, while "frontal" may include the entire altar cloth.
- In historical contexts, an antependium may be made of carved wood, ivory, or metal (e.g., a "metal antependium" from the medieval period).
Variants and Related Words
- Antependial (adj): relating to or resembling an antependium.
- The antependial design featured intricate floral patterns. (The design of the altar hanging was elaborate.)
Synonyms
- Altar frontal: a cloth or covering for the front of an altar, often used synonymously.
- Altar hanging: a general term for any decorative cloth or panel hung before an altar.
Related Idioms
- "To hang the antependium": a liturgical action meaning to place or change the altar covering.
- The sacristan will hang the antependium before the service. (The church official will put the decorative altar cloth in place.)