Rib vault
Introduction
A rib vault, also known as a ribbed vault, is an architectural feature that was widely employed in the construction of cathedrals and churches during the Romanesque and Gothic periods. This structural element is characterized by the use of intersecting ribbed arches that support the vault and distribute the weight of the roof more efficiently. Rib vaults represent a significant advancement in medieval architecture, allowing for the creation of larger and more complex buildings with higher ceilings and more intricate designs.
Historical Development
Romanesque Period
The origins of the rib vault can be traced back to the Romanesque period, which spanned from the 10th to the 12th centuries. During this time, architects began experimenting with different methods to support the heavy stone roofs of their buildings. The introduction of the ribbed vault was a key innovation, as it allowed for a more efficient distribution of weight and reduced the need for thick walls.
The earliest examples of rib vaults can be found in the crypts of Romanesque churches, where they were used to support the low, barrel-vaulted ceilings. These early rib vaults were relatively simple in design, consisting of two intersecting arches that formed a cross shape. Over time, architects began to add additional ribs to create more complex and visually striking designs.
Gothic Period
The Gothic period, which began in the 12th century and lasted until the 16th century, saw the widespread adoption and refinement of the rib vault. Gothic architects took the basic principles of the Romanesque rib vault and developed them into a highly sophisticated and versatile structural system. The use of rib vaults allowed for the construction of taller and more expansive buildings, with large windows and intricate tracery.
One of the key innovations of the Gothic rib vault was the introduction of the pointed arch, which allowed for greater flexibility in design and improved the structural stability of the vault. The pointed arch also enabled architects to create more complex rib patterns, such as the star-shaped and fan vaults that became popular in later Gothic architecture.
Structural Principles
The rib vault is composed of a series of intersecting ribs that form the framework of the vault. These ribs are typically made of stone and are designed to carry the weight of the roof and transfer it to the supporting columns or walls. The spaces between the ribs, known as the webbing, are usually filled with lighter materials such as brick or plaster.
The key structural advantage of the rib vault is its ability to distribute weight more efficiently than a solid barrel vault. By concentrating the weight along the ribs, the vault can span larger distances and support greater loads without the need for excessively thick walls. This allows for the creation of more open and airy interior spaces, with larger windows and more intricate decorative elements.
Types of Rib Vaults
Quadripartite Vault
The quadripartite vault is one of the most common types of rib vaults, consisting of four sections or "cells" created by the intersection of two diagonal ribs. This type of vault was widely used in both Romanesque and Gothic architecture and can be found in many of the great cathedrals of Europe.
Sexpartite Vault
The sexpartite vault is a more complex variation of the quadripartite vault, with six cells created by the addition of an extra transverse rib. This type of vault was particularly popular in early Gothic architecture and can be seen in buildings such as the Cathedral of Notre-Dame in Paris.
Lierne Vault
The lierne vault is characterized by the addition of short, decorative ribs known as liernes, which do not intersect at the central boss. This type of vault was used primarily in later Gothic architecture and allowed for the creation of highly intricate and decorative patterns.
Fan Vault
The fan vault is a distinctive type of rib vault that originated in England during the late Gothic period. It is characterized by a series of ribs that radiate outwards from a central point, creating a fan-like pattern. Fan vaults are particularly notable for their elaborate and highly decorative appearance.
Construction Techniques
The construction of a rib vault involves several key steps, beginning with the erection of temporary wooden scaffolding known as centering. This scaffolding supports the ribs and webbing during the construction process and is removed once the vault is complete.
The ribs are typically constructed first, using carefully cut and shaped stones that are fitted together to form the desired pattern. Once the ribs are in place, the webbing is added, usually in the form of lighter materials such as brick or plaster. The webbing is often reinforced with additional ribs or liernes to improve its structural stability.
One of the key challenges in constructing a rib vault is ensuring that the ribs and webbing are properly aligned and supported during the construction process. This requires careful planning and precise execution, as even small errors can result in structural weaknesses or aesthetic imperfections.
Decorative Elements
Rib vaults are often adorned with a variety of decorative elements, including bosses, tracery, and sculptural details. Bosses are ornamental features that are placed at the intersections of the ribs, often depicting religious or mythological scenes. Tracery refers to the intricate stonework that fills the spaces between the ribs, often in the form of geometric patterns or floral motifs.
Sculptural details, such as carved figures or reliefs, are also commonly found on rib vaults, particularly in Gothic architecture. These decorative elements serve both an aesthetic and symbolic purpose, enhancing the visual impact of the vault and conveying important religious or cultural messages.
Notable Examples
Durham Cathedral
Durham Cathedral, located in northern England, is one of the earliest and most important examples of a rib vault in Romanesque architecture. The cathedral's nave features a series of quadripartite rib vaults, which were constructed in the late 11th and early 12th centuries. These vaults are notable for their massive scale and impressive structural engineering.
Chartres Cathedral
Chartres Cathedral, located in France, is a masterpiece of Gothic architecture and features some of the most intricate and visually stunning rib vaults in existence. The cathedral's nave and choir are covered by a series of sexpartite rib vaults, which are adorned with elaborate tracery and sculptural details.
King's College Chapel
King's College Chapel, located in Cambridge, England, is renowned for its spectacular fan vaults, which were constructed in the late 15th and early 16th centuries. These vaults are among the finest examples of this type of rib vault and are notable for their intricate and highly decorative design.
Influence and Legacy
The development of the rib vault had a profound impact on the course of architectural history, paving the way for the construction of some of the most iconic and enduring buildings of the medieval period. The rib vault's ability to support larger and more complex structures allowed architects to push the boundaries of design and create buildings of unprecedented scale and beauty.
The principles of rib vault construction continued to influence architectural design well into the Renaissance and beyond, with many later architects drawing inspiration from the innovations of the Romanesque and Gothic periods. Today, rib vaults remain an important and enduring symbol of the ingenuity and creativity of medieval architects.