Linteau (lintel)

A lintel is a beam above a baie (wall opening), distributing the load of the wall above it to the jambages (posts).
In the context of this lexicon lintels are normally made of stone, sometimes decorated and supporting a tympan (tympanum) as well.
The lintel and tympanum in the picture are adorning the entrance to the Sainte-Marie-Madeleine in Neuilly-en-Donjon (03).

Sainte-Marie-Madeleine - Neuilly-en-Donjon