ABSTRACT
The architectural masses may be looked upon as complexes, in the sense that buildings may present a series of constructions of different sizes abutting one upon another: upon the pyramid or mastaba abut the buildings which constitute the temples or funerary chapels. The great pylon of the Edfu temple affords an opportunity of analysing the general form and of seeing particularly how the door, conceived as a separate element, is sandwiched in between two great lateral piles. The upward movement of the ground-level has its counterpart in the inverse movement of the roof-level, which is particularly noticeable at Edfu. The polygonal pillar, in miniature size, is also frequently reproduced in wood or ivory. It is to be found combined with other forms in the hatchwork of windows. In Ethiopian architecture the pillars are ornamented with colossal figures of the god Bes.
