Color and ornamentation as an expression of social status and its impact on the lebanese architectural development

Abstract

Color and ornamentation are remarkable elements present trough diverse forms in the Lebanese architecture. Throughout history, Lebanon has been the crossroad of a variety of cultures and civilizations. Diverse currents coming from the East and the West including the Canaanites, the Phoenicians, the Greek, the Roman, the Franks, the Mamluk, the Ottoman rule and the French mandate carried new forms. Many concepts, new technologies and socio-cultural aspects merged with the local tradition to unfold into what we currently know as Lebanese architecture. The rich historic background contributed to molding and evolution of social classes which was translated into architectural language to express social, religious and cultural status. Colors and forms are key elements in identifying the source of influence of a particular architectural feature. By closely analyzing a façade’s ornamentation and color use, valuable information imbedded in the details can shed light on the evolution of the structure throughout its existence. The marks left by successive different cultures identify the background and particularities of the occupants. The value and significance of materials and colors are closely related to availability and cost. Some local and other imported, pigments and dyes were extensively used in the decoration of ceilings, internal walls, and entrances. Colored stones and marble were also widely used in exterior ornamentation which was closely related to the socio-economic and cultural background. This study will attempt to identify the origin of certain colors/ornamentations their meaning and use.