Question

Although "caryatid" sounds like a species of shellfish, it is a special form of column used to support the corners of some ancient buildings, such as the Erechtheum. How would you describe these columns? By the way, where is the Erechtheum?

Answer

Caryatids are sculpted female figures used as columns to support an entablature or similar member. A sculpted male figure is called an Atlantes. The Erechtheum (421-406 B.C.) is on the Acropolis in Athens.