Wednesday, March 9, 2011

Week 3

Similarities Between Gothic and Termite Structures

In order to pervent the outward collapse of the arches, Gothic architects began using a revolutionary "flying butress" system. Freestanding brick or stone supports were attached to the exterior walls by an arch or a half-arch.


In this view of the Sainte-Chapalle in Riom, France, you can see the broad masonry buttresses extending from the stone pillars to the main wall of the cathdral. The Sanite-Chapelle in Riom is modeled after Louis IX's palace chapel in Paris.


I get a sense persevered fluidity, one describe it as an eternal streme.