SCHEMATIC OF DORIC: Entablature

Resting on the slab like abacus, the Doric entablature is made up of three parts. The lowest portion, the architrave (A) is generally a stright cut supporting member composed of blocks of stone which meet over the abacus. Above the architrave is the frieze (B). In Doric entablatures, this frieze generally is a series of sculpted metopes, separated by a carved triglyphs. Some early temples have plain metopes between the triglyphs. Above the frieze is the cornice (C) which serves to join the entablature to the overhanging eave of the roof.