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Polyptychon

polyptych (multi-panel artwork)

noun po-LUE-ptue-khon Rare

Origin: from Greek polyptykhon, folded many times

Usage Note

Polyptychon is an altarpiece or artwork consisting of more than three panels. Large Flemish altarpieces like the Genter Altar are famous Polyptychon examples. Neutral noun.

Examples

"Das gotische Polyptychon in der Kirche zeigt zwölf Szenen aus dem Leben der Heiligen."

Natural Translation

The Gothic polyptych in the church shows twelve scenes from the lives of the saints.

Literal Translation

The Gothic polyptych in the church shows twelve scenes from the life of the saints.

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