Gothic Architecture Flashcards

Questions and Answers

What is a groin vault?

A type of ribbed vault

A type of ceiling decoration

Formed at the point where 2 barrel vaults intersect at right angles (correct)

A single barrel vault

Define a relic in the context of Gothic architecture.

Usually consists of the physical remains of a saint or personal effects preserved for veneration.

What is a flying buttress?

An external, arched support for the wall of a church or building.

What is a tympanum?

The semicircular area enclosed by the arch above the lintel of an arched entrance way. Signup and view all the answers

What are the ten parts of a Gothic cathedral cross section?

Bay, Nave, Aisle, Nave arcade, Clerestory, Cluster Pier with colonnettes, Triforium, Buttress, Flying buttress, Wooden Roof. Signup and view all the answers

What is a nave?

The central part of a church, intended to accommodate the congregation. Signup and view all the answers

What is an arcade?

A row of arches supported on columns or piers, separating the nave from side aisles. Signup and view all the answers

Define a clerestory in Gothic architecture.

An upper level of the church with windows that rises above the rooflines of the lower aisles. Signup and view all the answers

What is a cluster pier with colonnettes?

A clustered column or pier which consists of a center mass with engaged or semi-detached shafts. Signup and view all the answers

What is a buttress?

A type of architectural support, typically a masonry pillar with a wide base. Signup and view all the answers

What are the four styles of French Gothic architecture?

Early Gothic, High Gothic, Rayonnant Gothic, Late or Flamboyant Gothic Signup and view all the answers

What are the three styles of English Gothic architecture?

Early English, Decorated, Perpendicular Signup and view all the answers

What is fan vaulting?

A form of vaulting characterized by fan-like patterns. Signup and view all the answers

What is a triforium?

An arcaded element found directly below the clerestory in a Gothic church. Signup and view all the answers

What is bar tracery?

Tracery composed of thin stone elements giving a delicate effect. Signup and view all the answers

Who was Abbot Suger?

A friend and confidant of French Kings who rebuilt the Church of Saint-Denis. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Key Architectural Terms

Groin Vault: Formed from the intersection of two barrel vaults at right angles; a key feature in Gothic construction.
Relic: Physical remains or personal effects of saints preserved for veneration as a memorial, significant in religious contexts.
Flying Buttress: External, arched support used in Gothic cathedrals to allow tall, thin walls filled with stained-glass windows.
Tympanum: Semicircular area above the lintel of an arched entrance; often decorated with sculptural reliefs.
Aisle Arcade: Row of arches supported by columns or piers, separating the nave from the side aisles and often used for decorative purposes.

Structural Components of Gothic Cathedrals

Bay: Refers to a unit of space within the nave or choir of a cathedral.
Nave: Central part of a church, typically used for congregational worship.
Clerestory: Upper level of a gothic church with windows that allow light into the nave, higher than the aisles.
Cluster Pier with Colonnettes: A combination of a central mass with attached shafts designed to support arches or ribs in vaulting.
Buttress: Masonry support structure that reinforces an exterior wall by distributing its weight.

Architectural Styles

French Gothic Architecture:
- Early Gothic (1130-1190): Emergence of the style with early innovations.
- High Gothic (1190-1240): Characterized by towering structures and large windows.
- Rayonnant Gothic (1240-1350): Focus on decorative elements and intricate designs.
- Late or Flamboyant Gothic (1350-1520): Highly ornate and detailed architectural form.
English Gothic Architecture:
- Early English Period (1175-1250): Features pointed arches and ribbed vaults.
- Decorated Period (1250-1300): Introduction of intricate patterns and designs.
- Perpendicular Period (1350-1400): Emphasis on vertical lines and large windows.

Other Architectural Features

Fan Vaulting: A type of vault characterized by a fan-like pattern created by the radiating ribs.
Triforium: Arcaded section below the clerestory, which can serve either functional or decorative purposes.
Bar Tracery: Delicate stonework that allows more glass than traditional plate tracery, creating a lighter appearance.

Notable Figures

Abbot Suger: Key figure in the development of Gothic architecture; known for rebuilding the Church of Saint-Denis, influencing Gothic design principles.

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Description

Test your knowledge of key terms in Gothic Architecture. This quiz covers essential concepts such as groin vaults, relics, and flying buttresses, providing definitions that deepen your understanding of this architectural style. Perfect for students and enthusiasts alike!