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. architectural elements
7. [architectural elements by building type]
8. religious building fixtures
9. [altars and altar components]
10. altars (religious fixtures)
11. freestanding altars

Anotations

Scope note:

Altars in Catholic churches installed after the Second Vatican Council (1962-1965) in accordance with new mandates that the altar should be table-like and placed far enough away from the wall so that the celebrant could face the congregation rather than have his back to them. Churches dating before the 1960s may retain the structures of the original high altars that are nearer the wall and having ornate superstructures, although they are no longer used for celebrating the mass. Altars from other periods and other faiths may be similar in design to council altars; the distinction is the context in which the council altar was installed.