Retable Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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retable
[ˈrɛtəbl ]
Definition
furniture type
A retable is a type of altar table that is often found in churches and cathedrals. It typically serves as a decorative piece that holds religious artifacts, such as candles, icons, or the Eucharist. The term can also refer to the ornamental structure behind and above the altar. Retables can vary widely in size and complexity, from simple wooden tables to intricate stone structures adorned with various religious themes and figures.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- The retable behind the altar was beautifully carved.
- In the church, the retable featured detailed scenes from the Bible.
- The priest arranged the flowers on the retable for the service.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Art History
- Retables were often intricate works, displaying paintings or sculptures that illustrated biblical stories and saints.
- They served both a practical purpose in the liturgy and a decorative one, making the church visually appealing and spiritually enriching.
- Notable styles of retables include Gothic, Baroque, and Renaissance, each reflecting the artistic trends of their respective periods.
Religious Significance
- Retables are usually found behind the altar and focus the attention of worshippers during services.
- Often, they contain relics, enhancing the spiritual atmosphere of the space, inviting reflection and reverence.
- The arrangement and iconography used on a retable can vary greatly, representing the beliefs and practices of different denominations.
Cultural Impact
- Throughout history, retables have influenced the design of many European churches, becoming central to their architectural aesthetics.
- Some modern artists have revisited the concept of the retable, blending traditional themes with contemporary styles to engage today's audience.
- In addition to churches, the concept has been applied in secular spaces, where it can serve as a focal point for exhibitions or memorials.
Construction and Materials
- Traditional retables are often made from wood or stone and can be richly painted or gilded to enhance their beauty.
- Some retables feature inlaid materials, such as marble or precious metals, showcasing incredible craftsmanship and artistry.
- Today, you can find both historical and contemporary retables in museums, as they are significant artefacts of religious heritage.
Origin of 'retable'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Latin 'retabulum', meaning 'to cover' or 'to protect', indicating its role as a protective table for sacred items.
- In Old French, 'retable' retained the same meaning, maintaining links between languages as religious practices spread.
- The term has been used in English since the early 15th century, highlighting the cultural exchange during the Renaissance.
The word 'retable' originates from the Old French word 'retable', which means 'to place back'. This term itself comes from the Latin word 'retabulum', meaning ‘a table placed behind’. The use of retables has been recorded since the early medieval period in Europe, as they became inextricably linked to the ecclesiastical architecture of Christianity. Over the centuries, their design evolved to include elaborate carvings and paintings reflecting the religious beliefs and artistic trends of their time. During the Renaissance, retables became particularly grand, often serving as focal points in the layout of a church. By the Baroque period, they took on even more complexity with the integration of sculpture and gold leaf, becoming not only functional pieces but also masterpieces of art. Retables continue to be significant in religious architecture, serving both aesthetic and liturgical purposes.