baldachinum

In medieval times altars were protected by a covering then called a ciborium (see the article ALTAR, under sub-title Ciborium), but now known as a baldachinum, or canopy, which survives at the present day as a feature of certain styles of architecture.

The Catholic Encyclopedia, Volume 3: Brownson-Clairvaux 1840-1916 1913

On the other hand the baldachinum over the highest row of seats was often very magnificent.

The Catholic Encyclopedia, Volume 14: Simony-Tournon 1840-1916 1913

To him we owe the handsome baldachinum over the high altar in St. Peter's, the colossal statue of St. Andrew with his cross, also in st.

The Catholic Encyclopedia, Volume 5: Diocese-Fathers of Mercy 1840-1916 1913

In 1412 Benedict XIII caused a magnificent baldachinum to be erected, but one of its pillars fell down, and it was reduced to its present condition.

The Catholic Encyclopedia, Volume 13: Revelation-Stock 1840-1916 1913

The "Caeremoniale Episcoporum (I, xii, 13), treating of the ornaments of the altar, says that a canopy (baldachinum) should be suspended over the altar.

The Catholic Encyclopedia, Volume 1: Aachen-Assize 1840-1916 1913