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Decorated window |
Decorated Gothic The Decorated Period (which ranged from approximately
1300-1400) was the second category of Gothic architecture in England.
It is also referred to as the Middle Pointed period, the Curvilinear period,
the Geometric period, and the Flamboyant period, all these names are used
to refer to Gothic windows. The general shape of gothic architecture did
not change drastically during the Decorated Period, the majority of changes
were made to the windows, which became more complex than the windows in
the Early English period. Flying buttresses started to be used more often
to distribute the weight of the walls and roof, which made it possible
to have windows much wider and taller than before. This extra size allowed
for a more decorative license, as there was more space to carve images
and designs into. Because the flying buttresses supported the weight of
the roof that had previously been supported by the walls, more windows
could be added and it was possible to build the walls thinner than had
been necessary during the Early English Period. The amount and sizes of
the windows brought in more light to these large buildings, which directly
contradicts our current misconception that gothic architecture was dreary
and dark. The carvings in the Decorated period closely resemble
those in the Early English Period, but were made with a wider variety.
Both periods focused on leaves and plants, but more kinds of leaves were
used during the Decorated Period, (mainly ivy, rose, oak, and vines).
Animals and humans were also carved in among the plants during this period,
instead of strictly foliage. The carvings during the Decorated period
are also described to be more natural and less formal than during the
Early English period. Architects continued to make columns more and more
thinly than before, and brick was introduced to England from the Netherlands.
Although brick never became popular with the upper class or churches (who
preferred stone) it was used from time to time in secular (non-religious)
buildings. The Decorated period came to an abrupt end with the Black Death, which put an end to all building for a time. |
Decorated foliage |
