Hierarchy classification:

1. top of the aat hierarchies
2. Objects Facet
3. Visual and Verbal Communication (hierarchy name)
4. Visual Works (hierarchy name)
5. visual works (works)
6. [visual works by form]

Narrower term/s

• diptychs [NP]
• triptychs [NP]
• pentaptychs
• quadriptychs

Anotations

Scope note:

Painted or carved works consisting of multiple panels. They are typically altarpieces, but may be objects with other functions as well. The polyptych normally consists of a central panel with an even number of side-panels, which are sometimes hinged to fold, and a predella. Although any object with two or more panels may technically be called a 'polyptych,' the word is typically reserved for anything larger than a triptych. In early usage, the Greek term 'polyptycha' referred to multiple-panel writing tablets and calendar icons.