AP Art History : Understanding terminology that describes Near Eastern architecture

Study concepts, example questions & explanations for AP Art History

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Example Questions

Example Question #1 : Architecture

What is the key feature of Russian church architecture?

Possible Answers:

Diamond vaults

Pyramids

Flèche

Onion domes

Flying buttresses

Correct answer:

Onion domes

Explanation:

An onion dome is a dome on top of a drum which is bulbous and larger than the structure it sits on, and comes to a point with a cross on it. Onion domes are the chief feature in Russian church architecture, adorning cathedrals in Russian Orthodox cultures. Onion domes are featured prominently in St. Basil's Cathedral in Moscow and are a symbol of Russian culture.

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