Gothic architecture, also known as French or medieval architecture, dates back to the 12th century in Europe and is still seen in certain parts of the world today. The architecture is known for its intricate design and its signature arches. In this article, we’ll take a look at how these arches were used in gothic architecture and the different types of arches that were used.
The History of Gothic Architecture
Gothic architecture is said to have been developed in the first half of the 12th century in the Île-de-France region of modern-day France. It was the main style of architecture in Europe until the 16th century and was used to create churches, cathedrals, and other grand structures. It was named “Gothic” because of its association with the Goths, a Germanic tribe from the Middle Ages. The term “Gothic” was also used as a pejorative term by Renaissance architects, who viewed the style as primitive and barbaric.
Gothic architecture is characterized by its pointed arches, ribbed vaults, buttresses, and flying buttresses. It also has a heavy emphasis on verticality, with the arches and other elements of the building stretching upwards towards the heavens. The pointed arches are said to have been an attempt to mimic the shape of God’s throne in heaven, and the verticality was meant to symbolize a striving towards God.
Types of Arches Used in Gothic Architecture
Gothic architecture makes use of four main types of arches: lancet, pointed, four-centered, and ogee. The lancet arch is the simplest of the arches, with a pointed top and two sides that angle inwards towards the center. It is often used in doorways and windows. The pointed arch is similar to the lancet arch, but the sides are more curved and the point at the top is more pronounced. The four-centered arch, also known as an ogee arch, is a more decorative type of arch with a curved top and two sides that curve outwards. Finally, the ogee arch is a more elaborate arch with a pointed top and two sides that curve outward and then back inwards.
Lancet Arches
Lancet arches are the simplest type of arch used in Gothic architecture. They are a form of pointed arch with a sharp point at the top and two sides that angle inwards towards the center. These arches are often used in doorways, windows, and other openings. They are seen in many Gothic buildings, such as the Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris and the Sainte-Chapelle in the same city.
Pointed Arches
Pointed arches are similar to lancet arches, but the sides are more curved and the point at the top is more pronounced. These arches are often used in doorways, windows, and other openings, but they can also be used to create decorative designs. These arches are seen in many Gothic buildings, such as the Amiens Cathedral in France and the Sagrada Familia in Spain.
Four-Centered Arches
Four-centered arches, also known as ogee arches, are a more decorative type of arch with a curved top and two sides that curve outwards. These arches are often used in doorways and windows, but they can also be used to create decorative designs. These arches are seen in many Gothic buildings, such as the York Minster in England and the Cologne Cathedral in Germany.
Ogee Arches
The ogee arch is the most elaborate of the four types of arches used in Gothic architecture. It has a pointed top and two sides that curve outward and then back inwards. These arches are often used in doorways and windows, but they can also be used to create decorative designs. These arches are seen in many Gothic buildings, such as the Milan Cathedral in Italy and the Palais des Papes in France.
Conclusion
Gothic architecture is known for its pointed arches and its verticality, symbolizing a striving towards God. There are four main types of arches used in Gothic architecture: the lancet, the pointed, the four-centered, and the ogee. These arches can be found in many Gothic buildings, including the Notre Dame Cathedral, the Amiens Cathedral, the Sagrada Familia, the York Minster, the Cologne Cathedral, the Milan Cathedral, and the Palais des Papes.
