Various learning materials for the geometry involved in stonemasonry.
A trefoil is a common motif found in gothic architect. In it’s most basic form it consists of three circular elements in the shape of a triangle. This how to describes the construction of a trefoil inside a circle, and is useful when setting out tracery with defined constraints. Method Of Construction Draw a centre line and circle Mark the … Continue reading →
A perpendicular bisection of a straight line is a geometric construct intended to create a 90° angle using a compass. Method Draw the line to be bisected Draw the centre circle Draw second circle Draw third circle Bisect line Draw Line To Be Bisected The bisection will be of a straight line a-b. The length of this line is unimportant … Continue reading →
In stonemasonry, when a moulding changes direction to follow the shape of the stone it’s called a return. Irrespective of the change in angle, whether simple or compound, the resultant mitre will always form a straight line. Using the ovolo as an example, it can be seen that with a return of 90°, viewing the stone from 45° demonstrates the … Continue reading →
The term Gothic was originally used as a derogatory moniker during the latter part of the Renaissance to describe what was then thought of as impure architecture. The Gothic style originated in France during the 12th century and was known at the time as French Style. The Gothic architectural period lasted from the 12th century to the 16th century; Romanesque … Continue reading →