Fire was a constant problem with wooden roofs and there had been many catastrophes. Stone vaulting was therefore absolutely essential in the new churches, but this was not an easy task. Masons examined Roman structures, but the technical knowledge and original plans were lost. Medieval builders could only experiment.
Vault: An architectural term for the arched space that supports a roof.
Problems and Solutions
l Barrel vaulting came first, but problems soon developed
l Heavy stone roofs pressed down, but also pressed out. This caused arches to flatten, walls to push outward and, without intervention, the roof would collapse (Fig. 1.10).
l Pointed barrel vaulting was an improvement, but problems continued.
l Groin vaulting seemed to solve the issue, but problems slowly re-emerged.
Figure 1.10 Vaulting in Romanesque churches.
Barrel vault
Stone Carving
The most fundamental change in art during the Romanesque period was a return to monumental stone carving. The most important art form to emerge was relief sculpture on church portals and capitals.
Sculpture had been commonplace on Roman buildings, but the Christian Church had traditionally regarded Classical sculpture, especially free- standing statues, with great suspicion because of their association with pagan gods.
The sculptors at the great Benedictine Abbey of Cluny were the first to use the human figure in Christian art, and because of Cluny’s enormous influence the idea spread to other pilgrim churches.
Abutment
Barrel vault
Groin
Groin vault Collapsing under pressure 8 NEW APPRECIATING ART EUROPE AND THE WORLD
