Polyptych (original) (raw)

A polyptych (from the Greek polu- "many" + ptychē "fold") generally refers to a painting which is divided into four or more sections. (The term diptych is used to describe a two-part painting and the term triptych describes a three-part painting.)

Polyptychs were most common with Renaissance painters, especially those who painted in a religious style. The majority of polyptychs were designed to be altarpieces in churches and cathedrals.

Examples of polyptychs include: