Moulding

Moulding, a general name for the varieties of outline given by carving to the angles of certain parts of a building, such as cornice, capitals, base, etc. In classical architecture the mouldings are comparatively few, their form is always the same, and each has its fixed place in the order. Mediaeval architecture forms a great contrast to Classical in this respect. The general contour of Norman mouldings is very simple, but the surface ornament gradually becomes extremely rich and varied. Each of the Gothic styles has its characteristic mouldings, which are the best indications of the date of a building. [Gothic Architecture.]