Pilasters

Definition

Pilasters are vertical architectural elements that resemble columns but are typically flattened against a wall. They serve both decorative and structural purposes, often used in the design of buildings to create a sense of depth and enhance the overall aesthetic appeal. In Baroque and colonial architecture, pilasters can be intricately designed, often incorporating elaborate detailing that reflects the grandeur and opulence characteristic of these styles.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Pilasters were commonly used in Baroque and colonial architecture to add visual interest and create a sense of grandeur.
2. They often feature intricate carvings and decorations, reflecting the artistic trends of the time, such as scrolls, foliage, and figures.
3. In many colonial buildings, pilasters help to emphasize the entrance or facade, drawing attention to important architectural elements.
4. Unlike full columns, pilasters are attached to walls and are primarily decorative, though they can also contribute to structural support in certain designs.
5. Pilasters can be found in various styles of architecture across the Americas, serving as a reminder of European influences during the colonial period.

Review Questions

• How do pilasters enhance the visual appeal of Baroque and colonial architecture?
  • Pilasters enhance the visual appeal of Baroque and colonial architecture by adding depth and dimension to flat surfaces. Their vertical orientation draws the eye upward, emphasizing height and grandeur. Additionally, the intricate details often carved into pilasters contribute to the overall aesthetic richness of a building's facade, making it more visually striking and inviting.
• Discuss the functional role of pilasters in architectural design compared to traditional columns.
  • Pilasters serve a functional role in architectural design by providing a sense of support while remaining primarily decorative. Unlike traditional columns that are freestanding and bear weight independently, pilasters are attached to walls and may offer structural reinforcement in certain designs. This allows architects to achieve aesthetic effects without compromising structural integrity, which is particularly important in grand Baroque structures.
• Evaluate the impact of pilasters on the development of architectural styles during the colonial period in Latin America.
  • The use of pilasters during the colonial period in Latin America significantly impacted the development of architectural styles by integrating European influences with local traditions. As architects adopted pilaster designs from European Baroque styles, they adapted them to suit regional materials and cultural contexts. This led to a unique fusion of aesthetics that not only reflected colonial power and wealth but also showcased local craftsmanship. The enduring presence of pilasters in colonial architecture highlights their importance in shaping the identity and legacy of Latin American buildings.

Related terms

Column: A standalone architectural support structure, typically cylindrical in shape, used to support a building or structure.

Entablature: The horizontal structure supported by columns or pilasters, consisting of the architrave, frieze, and cornice.

Baroque Architecture:

An architectural style that emerged in the late 16th century characterized by dramatic use of light, bold ornamentation, and a strong sense of movement.