Glass Windows
Doubtless the development in the size of windows was due to some extent to the growing use of glass, which, though rare, was employed during the later Romanesque through Byzantine tradition.
No. 68. Perpendicular Gothic Bay shewing development of Clerestory.
These early windows were geometric in design, consisting of medallions, oval, circular or quatrefoil in shape, containing figure subjects set in a diapered background, the whole being executed in small pieces of coloured glass united by lead framings.
While the windows were single openings, this form of glazing necessarily restricted the size, though more adequate lighting was achieved by grouping two or more windows together.
With the development of tracery the technical difficulties were to some extent overcome; a window divided into comparatively small compartments could be more easily glazed than single openings of large size; thus glazed windows of greater dimensions were rendered possible.
No. 69. Perpendicular Gothic Windows.
A. Aylsham Church, Norfolk.
B. King’s College Chapel, Cambridge.
In the Decorated windows the lower lights were devoted to the subject, which in many instances was carried through the area, regardless of the dividing bars or mullions. In the Perpendicular each light or opening had usually its own subject or figure, surmounted by canopies, the upper spaces formed by intersection of the tracery bars were occupied by various details suitable to the different shapes.
The Arch of the Perpendicular style is materially different, being composed of elliptic curves struck from four centres.
Mouldings became even more shallow in section, and the tracery less florid than formerly, though extremely rich in appearance when used in the profusion that developed in the fan vaulting of this period.
No. 70. Perpendicular Gothic Fan Vaulting. St. Mary, Aldermary.
The foliation reverted to a more conventional character, and became lifeless and monotonous in comparison with the Decorated work.
It must not be assumed that examples in every instance will be found complete in any of these phases; on the contrary, the various styles are to be found side by side in the same building, the result of later additions or rebuilding.
No. 71. Perpendicular Gothic Tower, All Saints, Derby.
Painted decoration and sculpture were also employed during the various periods; wood-work where necessary was used, and in detail was in harmony with the architectural character of the period.