Atlantes

pl. [From Gr. Atlas.] ( Arch. ) A name given by the Greeks to male figures used instead of columns or pilasters to support entablatures. The name was derived from the idea of Atlas bearing the heavens on his shoulders. The Egyptians were in the habit of attaching colo al figures of this kind to the columns of their temples, which probably suggested the use of them to the Greeks. These figures are sometimes called Telamones or Persians. In the modern architecture of Italy, A. are frequently to be seen supporting the entablature above the entrance of a great building. When female figures are made use of for the like purpose, they are termed caryatides. - See CARYATIDES.