Perpendicular Gothic
Perpendicular Gothic, also known as the Rectilinear Style or simply Perpendicular, represents the third and final phase of English Gothic architecture. This style emerged in the late 14th century and continued into the 16th century, characterized by its distinctive verticality, emphasis on vertical lines, and intricate tracery.
Origins and Development
The Perpendicular Gothic style evolved from the Decorated Gothic period, which itself followed the Early English Gothic. The shift was largely influenced by:
- The need for larger windows to increase light within churches.
- Advances in stone masonry allowing for more intricate stone carvings.
- A desire to express the religious fervor of the time through architectural grandeur.
Characteristics
Key features of Perpendicular Gothic include:
- Vertical Emphasis: Buildings designed with a strong vertical thrust, achieved through the use of high, narrow arches, slender columns, and vertical tracery in windows.
- Window Tracery: The window design incorporates intricate patterns of stonework, known as Perpendicular Tracery, forming grids of perpendicular lines.
- Fan Vaulting: An innovation in vaulting where ribs spread out in a fan-like pattern from a single central point, creating a complex and decorative ceiling.
- Pendrils and Canopies: Decorative elements like pendrils (hanging bosses or pendants) and intricate canopies over statues or niches.
- Hammerbeam Roofs: A type of roof support that avoids the need for a central column, allowing for open spaces.
Notable Examples
Some of the most celebrated examples of Perpendicular Gothic architecture include:
Historical Context
The Perpendicular Gothic style coincided with a period of political and religious upheaval in England:
- The style was favored during the reigns of the House of Lancaster and later the House of York, reflecting the grandeur of these monarchies.
- The English Reformation impacted church building, but the style persisted due to its adaptability for secular buildings like colleges and guildhalls.
Decline and Influence
The Perpendicular Gothic style began to decline with the arrival of the Renaissance in England, although elements continued to appear in buildings well into the 17th century. Its influence can be seen in:
- The Gothic Revival movement in the 19th century, where architects like Augustus Pugin sought to recreate this medieval style.
- Modern architecture, where the verticality and decorative elements of Perpendicular Gothic have inspired various designs.
External Links
Here are some external resources for further reading:
See Also