Unit 2: Ancient Mesopotamia & Egypt Vocab

Hypostyle Hall

An interior space filled with rows of columns that support the roof, common in Egyptian temples.

Found in Temple of Amun-Re

Register

A horizontal band that organizes scenes in artwork, often used in ancient reliefs and paintings.

Found in Standard of Ur

Pylon

A massive gateway with sloping walls at the entrance to an Egyptian temple.

Found in Temple of Amun-Re

In situ

A Latin term meaning “in its original place,” describing objects found where they were originally located.

Found in Temple of Hatshepsut

Canon of proportion

A set of ideal mathematical ratios used to create standardized, harmonious figures in art.

Found in King Menkaure and Queen

Corridor axis

A long, straight passageway or layout that directs movement through a temple or structure.

Found in Temple of Amun-Re

Living rock

Natural rock that is carved in place to form monuments, tombs, or temples rather than being built from quarried blocks.

Found in Mortuary Temple of Hatshepsut