Which decorative column protrudes in relief from a wall to give the appearance of a separate post?

Which decorative column protrudes in relief from a wall to give the appearance of a separate post?

• A. Pilaster
• B. Pillar
• C. Column
• D. Buttress

Answer: (A)

A pilaster is a shallow, rectangular projection from a wall that mimics a vertical support. It has a base, shaft, and capital, but it remains attached to the wall rather than standing free. This creates the appearance of a separate post while actually being part of the wall, matching the description of a decorative column that protrudes in relief. In contrast, a pillar or a column is typically freestanding, and a buttress is a projecting support that reinforces the wall rather than just providing a decorative, column-like figure.

A pilaster is a shallow, rectangular projection from a wall that mimics a vertical support. It has a base, shaft, and capital, but it remains attached to the wall rather than standing free. This creates the appearance of a separate post while actually being part of the wall, matching the description of a decorative column that protrudes in relief. In contrast, a pillar or a column is typically freestanding, and a buttress is a projecting support that reinforces the wall rather than just providing a decorative, column-like figure.