Engaging Walls

Engaged Columns:
Nonfunctional forms that sit on the surface of a structure, protruding slightly adding visual detail to the wall.

This is an image of Maison Carrée à Nîmes Ancient Roman Temple, Nîmes. It is one of the best preserved Roman Temples standing.  You can see the front of the temple boast ten columns in the round, however the remaining columns are merely engaged columns.  They do not bear weight, and serve a decorative function as the temple would stand without them.