Abstract:

This study, which begins with a comprehensive corpus of proto-Aeolic capitals and discussions of their origin, ornamentation, positioning, typology, and dating, also offers an examination of the special features and construction techniques at the royal centers of the kingdoms of Israel and Judah. Ashlar masonry, with which the proto-Aeolic capitals were closely associated, is analyzed in all its aspects and compared to the stone masonry of neighboring cultures. The presentation concludes with a discussion of the question of Phoenician influence on Israelite masonry.