Tympanum (architecture)

A tympanum (pl.: tympana; from Greek and Latin words meaning "drum") is the semi-circular or triangular decorative wall surface over an entrance, door or window, which is bounded by a lintel and an arch.^[1] It often contains pedimental sculpture or other imagery or ornaments.^[2] Many architectural styles include this element.^[3]

Alternatively, the tympanum may hold an inscription, or in modern times, a clock face.

^ "Glossary - Tympanum". Architecture of the Indian Subcontinent. Archived from the original on 2012-03-06. Retrieved 2007-06-28.
^ "Glossary of Medieval Art and Architecture - tympanum". University of Pittsburgh. Archived from the original on 2018-01-16. Retrieved 2007-06-23.
^ "Illustrated Architecture Dictionary - Tympanum". www.buffaloah.com. Archived from the original on 2014-06-22. Retrieved 2014-04-12.

[1] "Glossary - Tympanum". Architecture of the Indian Subcontinent. Archived from the original on 2012-03-06. Retrieved 2007-06-28.

[2] "Glossary of Medieval Art and Architecture - tympanum". University of Pittsburgh. Archived from the original on 2018-01-16. Retrieved 2007-06-23.

[3] "Illustrated Architecture Dictionary - Tympanum". www.buffaloah.com. Archived from the original on 2014-06-22. Retrieved 2014-04-12.

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