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Lexicon Stonework _____________________________________________________ Rubble Masonry Masonry using irregularly shaped stones is known as rubble masonry. Ashlar Stone masonry utilizing dressed stones is known as ashlar masonry Ashlar is prepared (or "dressed") stonework of any type of stone. Random ashlar is the use of stone blocks of varying sizes and shapes, fitted together in a pattern that is not a continuous horizontal layer. Regular ashlar is where large rectangular cuboid blocks of masonry is sculpted to have square edges and smooth faces. The blocks are generally about 35 centimeters in height. When shorter than 30 centimeters, they are usually called “small ashlar". Brought to course: This is a technique used in random ashlar construction to create roughly levelled courses at regular intervals (often every 300mm to 900mm). The combination: By "bringing the work to course," masons are using horizontal guides, often dressed quoins, to level off the wall at intervals, which helps organise the random placement of the stones and creates a more refined, yet still rustic, appearance. An arch constructed of masonry stone comprises voussoirs and a keystone. Cyclopean masonry Denoting a type of ancient masonry made with massive irregular blocks alluding to the Greek mythological figure, the Cyclopes, thought the only creatures capable of moving such large blocks of masonry. Polygonal stonework Polygonal stonework is a building technique that uses irregular-shaped blocks, or polygons, that are carefully cut and fitted together, generally without mortar, to create a tight, interlocking structure. The visible outer faces are dressed with straight sides, giving the stones a net-like (reticulated) appearance, while the inner faces are often left irregular. Drawings by Frank Gaylard from: Fisher, Roger C. 1992. Visual Lexicon of the South African Dwelling. Cape Town: Unibook. p, 52-53.