Acroterion
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The term acroterion (Greek, pl. acroteria) refers to the small pedestal or plinth placed either side of the pediment (the triangular gable) in classical Greek and Roman architecture. It formed the base for acanthus, honeysuckle leaves, other ornaments and later small statuettes. Acroteria were also sometimes placed at the apex of the pediment. The term is sometimes used to denote both the ornaments and the pedestal.
Originally, acroteria were made of terracotta to match the roof tiles, but in later classical architecture, were made of marble. Acroteria were also used on Gothic gables, especially for canopy work.
The Romans later Latinised the word to acroterium.
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