Hierarchy classification:

1. top of the aat hierarchies
2. Objects Facet
3. Components (hierarchy name)
4. components (objects parts)
5. [components by specific context]
6. container components

Additional parents:

1. top of the aat hierarchies
2. Objects Facet
3. Components
4. components
5. components by specific context
6. furnishings components
7. furniture components

Narrower term/s

• protomai capitals [NP]

Anotations

Scope note:

Refers to components or embellishments used in antiquity in both the East and West. Moldmade protomai are often used on ancient vessels, typically plastic vases such as rhyta or kantharoi although also used on other vessel types such as cauldrons and shoulder hydriae. Protomai usually consist of the upper part (head, chest, and forelegs) of an animal or mythological creature or the head and upper body of a person. Protomai are often depicted in Greek vase paintings as shield devices as well. Amongst other things, protomai are also used as embellishments on ancient Hittite architecture and ancient Roman furniture. Protomai, especially in their earliest incarnations, most likely often had votive purposes. The term is occasionally used to refer to embellishments of a later date, particularly medieval stone architectural embellishments.