Spanish Conversation · Level 166
15 words
Spanish word
retablo
Pronunciation
IPA/reˈtaβlo/
Meaning
- masculine nounaltarpiece
Example
En la iglesia hay un retablo barroco muy decorado.
In the church there is a very elaborately decorated Baroque altarpiece.
More examples
Cuando pregunté por el retablo, la guía explicó su historia.
When I asked about the altarpiece, the guide explained its history.
Core concept
Decorative altar backdrop of joined panels and sculptures that narrate sacred episodes.
Common phrases
hablar del retablo
talk about the altarpiece
preguntar por el retablo
ask about the altarpiece
Similar words
altar: Stone or wooden table or raised platform used for prayer and worship.
cuadro: Flat, framed painting hung on a wall for display.
escultura: Three-dimensional carved or modeled work in wood, stone, or metal representing people or scenes.
icono: Small painted devotional panel depicting a holy person or scene for veneration.
Definition in Spanish
Obra de carácter religioso colocada en el respaldo del altar, formada por paneles y esculturas que suelen narrar episodios sagrados.
Word origin
Retablo derives from Late Latin retabulum (re- 'behind' + tabula 'board'), originally the wooden backboard of the altar that became an elaborated pictorial and sculptural work.
Usage tips
- Retablo can refer to both large church altarpieces and small folk devotional panels, and English usage often prefers altarpiece or retable for larger, monumental works.
Other meanings
- reredosnoun