altarpiece Definition
a work of art, especially a painting on wood, set above and behind an altar in a Christian church.
Using altarpiece: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "altarpiece" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
The altarpiece was painted by a famous artist.
Example
The church's altarpiece depicts the crucifixion of Jesus Christ.
Example
The altarpiece was removed for restoration.
altarpiece Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms for altarpiece
- retablo
- reredos
Phrases with altarpiece
an altarpiece with hinged wings that can be opened and closed
Example
The winged altarpiece at the cathedral is a masterpiece of Gothic art.
an altarpiece composed of multiple panels, usually hinged together
Example
The polyptych altarpiece at the museum is a rare example of Renaissance art.
an altarpiece composed of three panels, usually hinged together
Example
The triptych altarpiece at the chapel is a valuable work of Baroque art.
Origins of altarpiece
from Old English 'alter', meaning 'altar', and 'peces', meaning 'piece'
Summary: altarpiece in Brief
An 'altarpiece' [awl-ter-pees] is a work of art, often a painting on wood, that is placed above and behind an altar in a Christian church. Altarpieces can be hinged or composed of multiple panels, as in 'winged altarpiece,' 'polyptych altarpiece,' and 'triptych altarpiece.'
