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Mutule
Rectangular block under the soffit of the cornice of the Greek Doric
temple, which is studded with guttae. It is supposed to represent the piece
of timber through which the wooden pegs were driven in order to hold the

rafter in position, and it follows the sloping rake of the roof. In the Roman
Doric order the mutule was horizontal, with sometimes a crowning fillet,
so that it virtually fulfilled the purpose of the modillion in the Corinthian

cornice.

N

Narthex
An enclosed passage between the main entrance and the nave of a

church.
Nave

The main body of a church. It provides the central approach to the
high altar.

Niche
In classical architecture is an exedra or an apse that has been reduced
in size, retaining the half-dome heading usual for an apse.

O

Oculus
A circular opening in the center of a dome or in a wall.
Oillets

Arrow slits in the walls of medieval fortifications, but more strictly
applied to the round hole or circle with which the openings terminate. The
same term is applied to the small circles inserted in the tracery-head of the

windows of the Decorated and Perpendicular periods, sometimes varied
with trefoils and quatrefoils.
Onion dome

A dome whose shape resembles an onion.
Order

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