1. A platform or step at the base of an altar in a church.
Usage: architectural; religious
2. A painted or carved panel forming the base of an altarpiece or forming a separate decorative element below a larger work of art.
Usage: art history

Examples

• The priest ascended the predella to reach the altar.
• The altarpiece featured a predella decorated with scenes from the lives of saints.
• Medieval churches often had ornate predellas beneath their main altar paintings.
• The predella of the triptych displayed smaller narrative scenes in gold leaf.
• Visitors admired the intricate carvings on the predella supporting the marble altar.