Clustered slender columns soar dramatically upwards to support rib vaulting. This, along with the massive upper level clerestory windows and three large rose windows, creates an intense feeling of light in the interior (Fig. 2.19).
Sculpture
The sculpture on the exterior doorways developed from Early Gothic on the west, to High Gothic on the north and south transept.
The West Front
The towers and tall lancet windows on the west front date back to the 12th century, but the imagery on the Royal Portal shows a clear transition in style from Romanesque to Gothic (Fig. 2.22).
Jamb Figures on the Royal Portal
The column statues on the central doorway are more accomplished than most of the others, suggesting they were the work of the master sculptor. Work on the side doors may have been done by assistants.
Figure 2.20 Ribbed vaulting over the choir, Chartres Cathedral.
Nobody knows exactly who these graceful and elegant figures represent, and the extremely elongated bodies have very little in the way of natural human form. Instead, they are carved from
Figure 2.21 The ‘Royal Portal’ is so named because the statues are thought to represent the kings and queens from the Old Testament, who were Christ’s royal ancestors.
