The heart-shaped corner pillars in Graeco-Roman Egypt

Abstract EN

The architectural elements of the ancient structures of Graeco-Roman Egypt are discussed stylistically and chronologically.

these elements shed light on the hybridized arts of these structures in the Graeco-Roman period.

these architectural elements were adorned with various ornaments and motifs for they are considered the code through which architecture communicates with the public intellectually via the characteristics of these distinct architectural styles.

one of these ancient architectural and decorative elements is the heart-shaped corner pillars.

this article highlights the significance of the heart-shaped corner pillars in Graeco-Roman architecture in Egypt.

Asia Minor was the birthplace of heart-shaped corner pillars, which were utilised for both structural and ornamental purposes and eventually made their way across the Mediterranean.

meanwhile, Egypt was under Ptolemaic authority and a hub for commerce caravans, both of which contributed to the country's widespread adoption of Hellenistic design elements.

the study highlights the chronology of heart-shaped pillars in the religious, funeral, public, and private houses of Egypt in Graeco-Roman period.

these included various structures in Alexandria and other Graeco-Roman polis.

in addition, it sheds light on the use of heart-shaped corner pillars as a classical architectural and decorative element in the Greco-Roman period.

in order to piece together the history of the heart-shaped corner pillars in Graeco-Roman Egypt, this study analyses the architectural features of corner pillars to establish a stylistic and historical context.