Page:A History of Architecture in All Countries Vol 2.djvu/433

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Bk. IX. Ch. I.
417

Bk.IX.Ch. I. CIRCULAH-DOMICAL STYLE. 417 For this purpose it will be found convenient, first, to separate the Neo-Byzantine style from the older division, which, in order not to multiply terras, may be styled the Byzantine par excellence ; the first chapter extending from Constantine, 324, to the Hejira, 622 ; and the second from that time to the end of the Middle Ages. In reference to the ecclesiastical architecture of the first division, it is proposed to treat — First, of churches of the basilican or rectangular forms, subdividing them into those having wooden, and those having stone roofs.. Secondly, to describe circular churches in the same manner, sub- dividing them similarly into those with wooden roofs, and those with stone roofs or true domes. This subdivision will not be necessary in speaking of the Neo- Byzantine churches, since they all have stone roofs and true domes. With regard to civil or domestic architecture very little can at present be said, as so little is known regarding it, but we may hope that, a few years hence, materials will exist for an interesting chapter on even this branch of the subject. VOL. II. — 27 •