Lesene


A lesene, also called a pilaster strip,[1] is an architectural term for a narrow, low-relief, vertical pillar in a wall. It resembles a pilaster, but does not have a base or capital.[2] It is typical in Lombardic and Rijnlandish architectural building styles.[3]

Lesenes, corner lesenes and arch frieze on the tower of Old St. Martin, Kaarst

FunctionEdit

Lesenes are used in architecture to vertically divide a facade or other wall surface optically, albeit—unlike pilasters—without a base or capital. Their function is ornamental, not just to decorate the plain surface of a wall but, in the case of corner lesenes, to emphasise the edges of a building.

GalleryEdit

  • Lesenes and corbel table on a chapel wall

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  • Lesenes and corbel table at the Mausoleum of Galla Placidia in Ravenna (ca. 430 AD)

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  • Lesene on the staircase tower of the Gernrode collegiate church (before 1000 AD)

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  • Lesenes on the Abbey church of Maria Laach (1156)

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  • Lesenes on the tower of All Saints' Church, Earls Barton (Late 10th century)

  • Modern and post-modern

  • Robin Hood Gardens, London – Lesene-shaped formation on the supporting wall in the Plattenbau style

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  • Lesenes at Chile House, Hamburg


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 Metasyntactic variable, which is released under the 
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