predella
- noun
- /prɪˈdɛlə/
- Specialized
:
predela
- Art historians often analyze the predella to understand the themes of the entire altarpiece.
- predella panel
- altarpiece predella
- predella socle
Examples
-
The localizing details of the predella's stage set, costumes, and props dramatically contrast with Uccello's generic portrayals of the painting's actors.
Academic text (2003) -
The predella of the altarpiece features intricate paintings of biblical scenes.
-
Seen in this light, the two predella panels condense and transcode the larger Passion program of the wings.
Academic text (2005) -
The nocturnal vignettes of Uccello's predella incorporate both aspects of night.
Academic text (2003) -
While the main panel of the altarpiece portrays a story of communal inclusion, the predella bears a story of social exclusion.
Academic text (2003) -
Paolo Uccello completed the altarpiece's predella, the Miracle of the Profaned Host, most likely by 1468 (Fig. 2).
Academic text (2003) -
The newly restored predella revealed stunning details that were hidden for centuries.
Surface Forms
Etymology
Predella names the decorated lower panel under an altar or altarpiece. A helpful way to remember it is to think of it as the altarpiece's 'little foot' that supports the main picture, like the word pedestal and the root ped- meaning 'foot'.
