Voussoir Collection

Right bay of the Royal Portal, mid-12th century (stone) (b / w photo)
XIR141298 Right bay of the Royal Portal, mid-12th century (stone) (b/w photo) by French School, (12th century); Chartres Cathedral, Chartres, France; French, out of copyright

The Pentecost, from the tympanum of the central portal, c. 1120 (stone)
XIR158798 The Pentecost, from the tympanum of the central portal, c.1120 (stone) by French School, (12th century); Basilica of Sainte-Marie-Madeleine, Vezelay, France; French, out of copyright

Jamb sculptures of the central portral on the west facade (photo)
JFS249928 Jamb sculptures of the central portral on the west facade (photo) by Spanish School, (13th century); Leon Cathedral, Leon, Spain; eJohn Ferro Sims; Spanish, out of copyright

The Pentecost, from the tympanum of the central portal, c. 1120 (stone)
XIR245759 The Pentecost, from the tympanum of the central portal, c.1120 (stone) by French School, (12th century); Basilica of Sainte-Marie-Madeleine, Vezelay, France; French, out of copyright

Detail of the Portico de la Gloria with scenes of Hell (stone)
XJL158472 Detail of the Portico de la Gloria with scenes of Hell (stone) by Mateo, Master (fl.1168-88); Cathedral of St. James, Santiago da Compostela, Spain; Spanish, out of copyright

Sculptural detail from the facade of the main portal (stone)
XJL187580 Sculptural detail from the facade of the main portal (stone) by Spanish School, (12th century); Iglesia Parroquial Agramunt, Spain; Spanish, out of copyright

West Portal of the church of Santa Maria in Cap d Aran Tredos, the portal has three round arches with voussoirs in degradation

Archways at Castello Maniace on Ortygia, Syracuse, Sicily, Italy

Illustration of arch showing voussoir, keystone, crown, intrados, springing point, abutment, and imp

Spain. The Alhambra. Wine Gate
Spain. Granada. The Alhambra. Wine Gate. 14th century

Spain. Monzon. Castle. Detail
Spain. Monzon. Castle. Chapel of the Knights. 12th-13th centuries. Detail of the decoration

The Explorations at Jerusalem: Voussoir of Robinsons Arch Fallen through The
The Explorations at Jerusalem: Voussoir of Robinsons Arch Fallen through the Arch of Tunnel Below, 1869

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The voussoir, a key element in architectural design, is showcased in various stunning structures throughout history. In the right bay of the Royal Portal from the mid-12th century, this stone marvel captivates with its intricate details and timeless beauty. Another remarkable example can be found in The Pentecost, adorning the tympanum of the central portal around 1120. Crafted from stone, it exudes an aura of grandeur and spirituality. Jamb sculptures on the west facade further highlight the significance of voussoirs in architectural masterpieces. These intricately carved stones add depth and character to the overall composition, inviting viewers into a world where art meets craftsmanship. Delving deeper into Spanish architecture, we encounter breathtaking examples such as the Portico de la Gloria with its haunting scenes of Hell depicted in stone. Each detail tells a story that resonates through time. Moving beyond Spain's borders, we find ourselves enchanted by sculptural details from facades across different regions. From Santa Maria in Cap d Aran Tredos to The Alhambra's Wine Gate and Monzon Castle's intricate stonework - each structure showcases unique interpretations of voussoirs that leave us awe-inspired. Venturing even further to Sicily's Castello Maniace on Ortygia Island or exploring Jerusalem through engravings - archways adorned with voussoirs transport us back to ancient times while reminding us of their enduring relevance today. Illustrations depicting arches featuring elements such as keystones, crowns, intradoses, springing points, abutments, and imposts provide invaluable insights into how these components work harmoniously together within architectural frameworks.