Altarpiece

High school (ages 12+)
Art & Creativity

Name:

Date:

Step 1 · Read the article

Open the article and read it at the level above. Then answer the questions below in your own words.

https://smallwhale.org/articles/altarpiece

Write what each word means, using the article.

Do not copy the article. Write two things you learned, the way you would explain them to a friend.

Answers below are taken from the article’s stored facts, so they match what the student read.

1. What is the artistic mediums?Encompasses painting (panel, canvas), sculpture, and relief work
2. What is the iconographic function?Served as primary visual aids for religious instruction and devotional focus
3. Why do some altarpieces have wings that open and close?These winged altarpieces have side panels that can be opened on special days. When opened, they show bright, detailed pictures that celebrate the holiday.
4. What is a predella and why is it important?A predella is a row of small pictures below the main panel. It adds extra stories that help people understand the big picture better.

Liturgical Action: The prescribed forms and ceremonies of public worship in Christian churches.
Iconography: The visual images and symbols used in a work of art or the study of them.
Didactic Art: Art created with the primary intention of teaching or conveying moral or religious instruction.