The term "paternoster regal" refers to a type of medieval keyboard instrument resembling a small portable organ. It consists of a series of small pipes operated by a keyboard mechanism. The spelling of this term can be difficult, but is easily explained through IPA phonetic transcription. The first word, "paternoster", is pronounced /peɪtərnɒstər/. The second word, "regal", is pronounced /rɪɡəl/. This unique instrument was popular in Europe during the Renaissance period, and is still used today in some churches and concert halls.
Paternoster regal refers to a distinctive style of architectural motif or ornamentation commonly found in medieval European art and design. The term "paternoster" is derived from the Latin word for "our father," referencing the Lord's Prayer, while "regal" denotes something royal or majestic in nature. Together, "paternoster regal" represents a composition of royal or regal imagery integrated with a pattern or repetitive design.
In art and architecture, the paternoster regal motif typically features a series of decorative elements arranged in a vertical or horizontal manner, resembling a string of beads or pearls. These elements may include intricate, stylized representations of crowns, regal insignia, heraldic devices, plant motifs, or other symbols associated with royalty or high status. Often seen in churches, cathedrals, and castles, the paternoster regal motif was particularly prevalent during the Gothic and Renaissance periods, reflecting the fascination with royalty and religious piety characteristic of these eras.
The placement of the paternoster regal motif is commonly found in architectural features such as arches, vaults, columns, doorways, railings, and tombs. Its purpose is to add a sense of elegance, regality, and sacredness to the surrounding space. The intricate craftsmanship and attention to detail involved in creating paternoster regal motifs often demonstrate the skill and artistic flair of the craftsmen of the time.
Overall, the term paternoster regal refers to a specific decorative style that combines royal imagery and repetitive patterns, prominent in medieval European art and architecture, serving to convey a sense of majesty, religiosity, and regal splendor.
The term "paternoster regal" is derived from two separate words:
1. Paternoster: The word "paternoster" is of Latin origin and literally means "Our Father". It is the beginning of the Lord's Prayer (Pater Noster in Latin), which starts with the words "Our Father who art in heaven". In medieval times, people referred to a type of prayer bead as a "paternoster", which consisted of a string of beads used to count prayers.
2. Regal: The word "regal" comes from the Latin word "regalis", meaning "royal" or "kingly". It pertains to or signifies royalty or anything related to kings or queens.
When combined together, "paternoster regal" refers to a specific type of organ stop found in pipe organs, often resembling a trumpet-like sound.