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tracery - In architecture, branching, ornamental stonework, generally in a
window, where it supports the glass. Tracery is particularly characteristic of
Gothic architecture.
Example: The tracery in a rose window of Washington
Cathedral, Washington, DC. This graphic displays four different photos-- they
amount to a zoom into the tracery. Also see fenestration, foil, quatrefoil, and
stained glass. rose window - Large circular windows of tracery and stained glass
found in Gothic cathedrals. Also called a wheel window. Examples: transept - An
aisle between the apse and nave.
It cuts across the nave and side aisles to form
a cross-shaped floor plan. Also see architecture, cathedral, and Gothic. nave -
The major, central part of a church where the congregation gathers. It leads
from the main entrance to the altar and choir, and is usually flanked by side
aisles. An example: A photo of the nave of the cathedral of Notre Dame in Paris,
France, as seen upon entering it from the narthex, and looking toward the altar.
The ceiling's vaults are visible above.
Light is entering the nave through
stained glass windows. Also see column and pier. aisle - A long, narrow space on
either side of the nave of a church, usually between a row of columns or piers
and the outer wall. It is often referred to as a side aisle. choir - The part of
a church where services are sung.
It is usually east of the transept, and within
the chancel, but may extend into the nave. chancel - The part of a church
reserved for clergy and containing the altar and the choir.
ltarpiece or
altar-piece - A piece of artwork which is placed above and either on or behind
an altar in a Christian church or other religious platform. Usually it is a
votive painting, a set of painted and/or carved panels (often a triptych), or a
decorative screen.
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