Page:A history of architecture on the comparative method for the student, craftsman, and amateur.djvu/491

 SPANISH GOTHIC. 433 S.Juan de los Reyes, Toledo, a.d. 1476 (No. 188), is a rich example of a sepulchral chapel, erected by Ferdinand and Isabella, comparing in its intended purpose with Henry 'II.'s Chapel at Westminster. Valencia (A.p. 1262), Leon (a.d. 1260), and Barcelona (a.d._ 1298) Cathedrals, all showing French influence, and Lerida Cathedral (No. 187 e), externally roofed with stone, are other examples of early date. In domestic work the best examples are to be found in Cata- lonia, as seen in Barcelona municipal buildings, and Valencia town hall. 4. COMPARATIVE. A. Plans. — In regard to the plan of the cathedrals, the great width and comparative shortness (No. 187) of many of the naves is a prominent characteristic. The position of the choir is generally to the west of the crossing of nave and transepts, as at Burgos (No. 190 l), an arrangement probably derived from' the Early Christian basilicas, as S. Clemente, Rome (No. 73 b), and also seen at Westminster Abbey (No. 127), and Norwich Cathedral (No. 118). Chapels are numerous and large, and the parish church is often included in the area of the cathedral, as at Seville. The cinibovio, or dome (Nos. 186 and 188), at the crossing of the nave and transepts, is similar in treatment to examples in the south of France. S. Sernin, Toulouse, and Burgos Cathedrals resemble each other in plan, and Valencia and S. Ouen, Rouen, in design. Internally octagonal vaults, which are intricate in design and ingenious in construction, are characteristic, and were probably inspired by Moorish work. B. Walls. — In design French models were favoured, the later work being characterized by extreme, and even wild, ornamentation. There is much flatness and absence of sky- line in the exteriors, Burgos having in place of gables effective horizontal arcades, on the lines of the facade of Notre Dame at Paris. Traceried open-work spires, as in Germany, were favoured, those at Burgos being worthy of attention (No. 185). c. Openings. — These were carried to excess in Leon Cathedral, which has not only a glazed triforium, but also a large part of the wall surface of the clerestory glazed as well. Even in the south, as at Seville, openings are of large size, stained glass being much used. D. Roofs. — Vaulting was used freely, but developed in decora- tion, rather than in construction, such features as tracery, bosses, and ribs producing a rich effect, although the lines are not always f.a. p p