Capital with atlants

This double capital in Corinthian style is made up of the actual body of the capital itself, with an abacus displaying flowers together with a decorated impost block. Two rows of interspersed acanthus leaves, wrap around the twin capitals in the manner of a frill or cuff. From the centrally placed stalk a richly varied leaf and tendril decorative motif expands out from the leaves. This motif is executed in low relief and recedes in favour of the almost fully three-dimensional supporting figures that emerge at the corners. These figures either kneel or sit, exhibit entwined legs, and symbolically support the weight of the abacus with their heads and necks.

In the Middle Ages the meaning of these figures could both be positive as well as negative: as apostles, evangelists, saints, and the faithful they act as supports of the Church. Conversely, as stocky, naked figures and wild animals they become symbols of the evil powers defeated by Christ who are forced into the service of the church.

The supporting figures are also derived from different types belonging to classical antiquity and, from the early 12^th century, are commonly found on Italian door- and window frames as well as on pulpits or thrones. In contrast to examples, for instance, in Milan, Modena (façade), Piacenza, Bari, or Salerno, where the bearer, like Atlas, raises his arms, the figures at Monreale support themselves with their hands on their knees.

Salerno Piacenza Bari Modena Milan throne pulpit Christ church saint apostle evangelist atlante