Metope

A metope (/ˈmɛtəpi/; Ancient Greek: μετόπη) is a rectangular architectural element of the Doric order, filling the space between triglyphs in a frieze[1][2][3][4]: 43 [5]: 43 , a decorative band above an architrave.

[2][1] The painting on most metopes has been lost, but sufficient traces remain to allow a close idea of their original appearance.

Although they tend to be close to square in shape[5]: 43 ,[1] some metopes are noticeably larger in height or in width[5]: 71 .

They may also vary in width within a single structure to allow for corner contraction, an adjustment of the column spacing and arrangement of the Doric frieze in a temple to make the design appear more harmonious.

Some of the earliest surviving examples are stone metopes from a peripteral temple at Mycenae, ca.