Different types of altarpiece

Experiments with the format of altarpieces led to the creation of many different types:

Pala

A single, unified, large framed panel. The pala involved changes in both the altarpiece's construction and pictorial element. Here emphasis was placed on the painted image.

Diptych

A two panelled altarpiece. These were often portable and for private devotional use.

Triptych

A three-panel altarpiece, often with folding wings that may be shut to cover the central panel for ceremonial purposes. The Walker's Altarpiece is a triptych.

Dossal

A horizontal panel. Often composed of several panels joined together.

Polyptych

An elaborate structure that encompasses several individual vertical compartments. This multi-tiered design usually incorporates a predella.

Back to altarpieces

In this section

• Timeline
• The Story of the Passion of Christ
• Altarpieces
• Painting Techniques and Processes
• Conserving the Master of the Aachen Altarpiece Triptych
• Discovery of the back panels
• Church Life in the 15th Century
• Heraldry
• Glossary

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