A corbel is defined as a shelf or ledge formed by projecting successive courses of masonry out from the face of the wall. Racking is defined as masonry in which successive courses are stepped back from the face of the wall.

What is the corbelled style of architecture?

To make buildings more aesthetically pleasing the Trabeate or Corbelled style of architecture was used, this was mainly used in mosques, temples and buildings attached to baolis or large stepped wells, very common in ancient and medieval India. This style mainly dealt with entranceways.

What are corbels in construction?

Corbel, in architecture, bracket or weight-carrying member, built deeply into the wall so that the pressure on its embedded portion counteracts any tendency to overturn or fall outward. ... When such arches are used in a series, they become a corbel vault, which, as in the Mayan style, can support a roof or upper story.