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)

Narrower term/s

• altar chests [NP]

Anotations

Scope note:

Altars that are of relatively small size and transportable, often fitting into a container along with other items for worship or services. In Christian contexts, examples include consecrated altar stones set in a case or otherwise mounted, used by priests who travel from location to location saying Mass where a permanent consecrated altar may not be available. Specifications included that it should be a solid piece of natural stone of a type and size resistant to fracture, consecrated by a bishop, large enough to hold the host and chalice, and designed so that it may be inserted in or placed on a table convenient for the service. For transportable versions of Christian painted or carved image-bearing objects of the type displayed on or above an altar, use "portable altarpieces."