Rib vault

Definition

A rib vault is a type of architectural feature that consists of a framework of arches, known as ribs, which supports a ceiling or roof. This design not only adds structural integrity but also creates visually striking patterns in the architecture, especially prominent in Romanesque and Gothic buildings. The use of rib vaults allowed for greater height and more elaborate designs in spaces like cathedrals, showcasing the engineering advancements of the time.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Rib vaults originated during the Romanesque period but became more prominent in Gothic architecture, allowing for higher ceilings and more light in buildings.
2. The ribs in a rib vault are typically made from stone or brick and provide a skeleton framework that supports the rest of the vault.
3. Rib vaults are often used in combination with other architectural features, such as flying buttresses, to enhance both stability and aesthetic appeal.
4. The design of rib vaults allows for a variety of shapes and patterns, which can create complex visual effects inside large spaces like churches and cathedrals.
5. One famous example of rib vaults can be found in the Notre-Dame Cathedral in Paris, where they contribute to the overall grandeur and intricacy of the structure.

Review Questions

• How do rib vaults contribute to the structural integrity and aesthetic appeal of Gothic architecture?
  • Rib vaults significantly enhance both the structural integrity and aesthetic appeal of Gothic architecture by allowing for higher ceilings and larger open spaces. The ribs form a framework that distributes weight effectively, enabling builders to create expansive interiors filled with light from large stained glass windows. This combination of functionality and beauty exemplifies the ingenuity of Gothic design, making spaces feel both grand and inviting.
• Compare and contrast rib vaults with barrel vaults regarding their structural functions and design characteristics.
  • Rib vaults and barrel vaults differ significantly in their structural functions and design characteristics. While barrel vaults consist of a single continuous arch creating a tunnel effect, rib vaults employ a framework of intersecting arches that allows for more intricate designs. Rib vaults can span larger areas without solid walls, providing more flexibility in layout compared to barrel vaults. This versatility contributes to the complex aesthetics seen in Gothic cathedrals.
• Evaluate the impact of rib vaulting on the evolution of architectural techniques during the transition from Romanesque to Gothic styles.
  • The introduction of rib vaulting marked a significant shift in architectural techniques as buildings transitioned from Romanesque to Gothic styles. Rib vaulting allowed architects to break away from the heavy, solid forms characteristic of Romanesque structures, facilitating taller and more intricate designs. This advancement paved the way for innovations such as flying buttresses, which supported the increased height and complexity of Gothic cathedrals. The evolution brought about by rib vaulting not only transformed architectural aesthetics but also set new standards for engineering during this era.

Related terms

Barrel vault: A barrel vault is a continuous series of arches that creates a tunnel-like structure, serving as a precursor to more complex vaulting techniques.

Gothic architecture: A style of architecture that emerged in the 12th century characterized by pointed arches, ribbed vaults, and flying buttresses, which allowed for taller structures and large stained glass windows.

Buttress: A support structure built against a wall to strengthen it, commonly used in Gothic architecture to counteract the lateral forces exerted by rib vaults.