modillion
noun
Forms modillions
- noun (architecture) A decoratively carved supporting block atop a column, often underneath a cornice, and usually smaller and more ornamental in function than a corbel.
Etymology
Borrowed from Italian modiglione. Doublet of moellon.
Webster’s 1913
- noun The enriched block or horizontal bracket generally found under the cornice of the Corinthian and Composite entablature, and sometimes, less ornamented, in the Ionic and other orders; --so called because of its arrangement at regulated distances.
Etymology [F. modillon, It. modiglione. Cf. Module, n.]
Sources: Wiktionary · Webster’s 1913 — from the Wiktionary entry “modillion”, CC BY-SA 4.0. Details