What is cross vault in architecture?
A groin (or cross) vault is formed by the perpendicular intersection of two barrel vaults. A rib (or ribbed) vault is supported by a series of arched diagonal ribs that divide the vault’s surface into panels. A fan vault is composed of concave sections with ribs spreading out like a fan.
Why was rib vaulting an important innovation in the construction of Gothic churches?
The strength of rib vaults made it possible to have thinner walls, which in turn made it possible to have larger windows on the upper levels, filling the nave with light. They eventually made possible the enormous rose windows of Gothic cathedrals.
Why are ribbed vaults important?
What do the ribbed vaults do?
rib vault, also called ribbed vault, in building construction, a skeleton of arches or ribs on which masonry can be laid to form a ceiling or roof. Rib vaults were frequently used in medieval buildings, most famously in Gothic cathedrals.
What is the best description of a cross vault?
A groin vault or groined vault (also sometimes known as a double barrel vault or cross vault) is produced by the intersection at right angles of two barrel vaults. The word “groin” refers to the edge between the intersecting vaults. Sometimes the arches of groin vaults are pointed instead of round.
What is the advantage of building with a Gothic rib vault?
Gothic architects employed the ribbed vault to provide structures flexibility in roof and wall engineering. These vaults were easier to build than barrel vaults, and they were also stronger and more flexible. The ribs provided support for heavy walls and ceilings without using large amounts of material.
Why was the ribbed vault created?
The rib vault was developed further in northern Europe in the 11th century, as builders sought a way to construct larger and larger stone vaults to replace the wooden roofs of Romanesque churches, which were frequently destroyed by fire.
What is a vault describe its parts and or functions?
A vault is an arched structure that springs from a cornice, which is supported by both a solid wall and four columns. The cornice is a set of projecting moldings that crown the top edge of a temple or building. Vaults provide increased space in the ceiling and create a self-formed roof for a building.
What is a rib vault in Gothic architecture?
An alternative to barrel vaults in the naves of churches, rib vaults in 12th century early Gothic architecture began to be used in vaults made with pointed arches, already known in the Romanesque style. In these vaults, as in groin vaults, the weight was directed it to the corners, where piers, columns, or walls could support it.
What type of vault was used in the High Gothic period?
A new variation of rib vault appeared during the High Gothic: the four-part rib vault, which was used in Chartres Cathedral, Amiens Cathedral and Reims Cathedral.
What is the difference between a groin and rib vault?
Rib vaults were frequently used in medieval buildings, most famously in Gothic cathedrals. Similarly to groin vaults, rib vaults are constructed from two, sometimes three, intersecting vaults, which can be of different widths but must be of the same height.
What is an ogive rib vault?
Rib vaults are reinforced by a network of thin stone ribs (French: ogives ). In the first six-part vaults, the vault was supported by two diagonal crossing ribs, plus an intermediate rib, which together divided the vault into six sections.