castrum doloris (Latin, "the castle of dolour")

An elaborate catafalque, the most important object used during the grand ceremonial burials usual in the period. There was a baldachin over the impressive platform which held the coffin, and the whole structure was decorated with allegorical figures and trophies. This was an ephemeral genre of art made of temporary materials; its examples are known from descriptions and engravings only.

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