Metope

In architecture, a metope is the rectangular panel that fills the space between two triglyphs in a Doric frieze. The Doric frieze typically alternates metopes and triglyphs along its length, with the metopes often left plain or elaborately sculpted in relief.

Etymology-wise, the term comes from the Greek metopē, meaning a space or place between, reflecting its position in the frieze. The metope is distinct to the Doric order; in the Ionic order, the frieze is usually a continuous band of relief sculpture without the triglyph-metope division.

Content and style commonly associated with metopes include mythological and historical scenes. Many Greek metopes depict battles between heroes and monsters, gods and mortals, or other symbolic narratives. The Parthenon metopes, for example, are famous for their high-relief depictions of centaurs and Lapiths, among other subjects. Metopes could be carved in high relief, painted, or left relatively plain, depending on the temple and period.

Historical use and variations: Metopes were a standard feature of Greek Doric temples from the 7th century BCE through the classical period. While the Doric order relied on metopes as a decorative element, the Ionic and Corinthian orders favored a continuous frieze without the triglyph-metope alternation. In Roman adaptations of Greek architecture, Doric metopes were often preserved or adapted, continuing the legacy of the panel as a site for sculptural narrative.

See also: Doric order, triglyph, frieze, classical sculpture.