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What is quatrefoil in architecture?
A quatrefoil (anciently caterfoil) is a decorative element consisting of a symmetrical shape which forms the overall outline of four partially overlapping circles of the same diameter. It is found in art, architecture, heraldry and traditional Christian symbolism.
What does the quatrefoil represent?
As we mentioned, the quatrefoil is the ancient symbol for good luck. The word is derived from Latin roots and means four leaves. (Think four-leaf clover!)
Is quatrefoil a geometric?
Geometry in architecture and design has been evident since the time of the Great Pyramids. At Gabby, one of our favorite geometric shapes to play with is the Quatrefoil. Historically, the Quatrefoil pattern was prolific in Gothic architecture.
What does quatrefoil mean in English?
1 : a conventionalized representation of a flower with four petals or of a leaf with four leaflets. 2 : a 4-lobed foliation in architecture.
What is a tracery in architecture?
tracery, in architecture, bars, or ribs, used decoratively in windows or other openings; the term also applies to similar forms used in relief as wall decoration (sometimes called blind tracery) and hence figuratively, to any intricate line pattern.
What is Trefoil decoration?
Ornamentation. ‘Trefoil’ is a term in Gothic architecture given to the ornamental foliation or cusping introduced in the heads of window-lights, tracery, and panellings, in which the centre takes the form of a three-lobed leaf (formed from three partially overlapping circles).
What are windows with tracery?
Tracery is an architectural device by which windows (or screens, panels, and vaults) are divided into sections of various proportions by stone bars or ribs of moulding. Most commonly, it refers to the stonework elements that support the glass in a window.
What material is tracery made of?
In Gothic architecture, tracery in windows refers to the stone bars, ribs, or other supports between sections of glass that have decorative as well as utilitarian qualities. Tracery, which is often made of stone, gives the impression of a frame or outline and forms a pattern of interlacing or interconnected lines.
What is Trefoil used for?
Forage: Birdsfoot trefoil is used as a high quality, non-bloating legume for pastures, hay and stock-piling. Erosion control: Birdsfoot trefoil is often used for mine reclamation and other sites with marginal soils. Wildlife: Birdsfoot trefoil is used in wildlife mixes and is an excellent food source for deer.
Why are Trefoils used as decoration?
The trefoil comes from the Latin trifolium, meaning ‘three-leaved plant’. It was adopted as ornamentation to churches during the Middle Ages. The symbolism of three fits with Christian imagery associated with the Trinity: the Father, Son and Holy Spirit.
Where can you find a quatrefoil in architecture?
It is most commonly found as tracery, mainly in Gothic architecture, where a quatrefoil often may be seen at the top of a Gothic arch, sometimes filled with stained glass. Although the design is often referred to as of Islamic origin, there are examples of its use that precede the birth of Islam by almost 200 years.
Why was the quatrefoil used in stained glass windows?
It appeared in medieval heraldry and was sometimes regarded as a symbol of good luck. In Christianity, the quatrefoil was adopted to represent the four gospels of Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John. It became a prominent design element in Gothic architecture, where it was used in tracery and stained glass windows.
Where did the quatrefoil symbol come from and why?
To Christianity, the symbol represented the four gospels. The quatrefoil was used prominently in Gothic and Renaissance architecture. The barbed quatrefoil is a variation on the standard form in which angles are added between the four lobes. It originated in medieval France.
Which is an example of a Gothic quatrefoil?
Below is an example of decorative stonework on a Gothic cathedral in Amiens, France featuring several quatrefoils. Gothic art used a variation called the barbed quatrefoil, in which notched angles are added between the four lobes.