Gothic architecture
Posted on:4/11/2006
| Gothic architecture is a style of European architecture, particularly associated with cathedrals and other churches, beginning in 12th century France and in use during the high and late medieval period. |
Gothic architecture is a style of European architecture, particularly associated with cathedrals and other churches, beginning in 12th century France and in use during the high and late medieval period. It was succeeded by Renaissance architecture beginning in Florence in the 15th century. A series of Gothic revivals began in mid-18th century England, triumphed in 19th century Europe and continued, largely for ecclesiastical and university structures, into the 20th century. The term Gothic was originally intended as a stylistic insult by Reformation-era critics, then evolved into a neutral distinguisher between Northern European Architecture from Southern European Romanesque Architecture; the term has since matured into a simple description of style.
The style originated at the abbey church of Saint-Denis in Saint-Denis, near Paris, where it exemplified the vision of Abbot Suger. Suger wanted to create a physical representation of the Heavenly Jerusalem, a building of a high degree of linearity that was suffused with light and color. The façade was actually designed by Suger, whereas the Gothic nave was added some hundred years later. He designed the façade of Saint-Denis to be an echo of the Roman Arch of Constantine with its three-part division. This division is also frequently found in the Romanesque style. The eastern "rose" window, which is credited to him as well, is a re-imagining of the Christian "circle-square" iconography. The first truly Gothic construction was the choir of the church, consecrated in 1144. With its thin columns, stained-glass windows, and a sense of verticality with an ethereal look, the choir of Saint-Denis established the elements that would later be elaborated upon during the Gothic period. This style was adopted first in northern France and by the English, and spread throughout France, the Low Countries and parts of Germany and also to Spain and northern Italy.
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