Some Observations on the Early Flying Buttress and Choir Triforium of Canterbury Cathedral

Abstract

Exposed flying buttresses became a critical constructional innovation in the development of Gothic architecture. The initial experiments took place in France in the second half of the twelfth century, but the precise dates are still open to question. In England, however, Gervase of Canterbury meticulously documented the sequence of construction of the choir, presbytery, and Trinity Chapel at Canterbury Cathedral after the fire of 1174 as they were built by William of Sens and William the Englishman. The choir and presbytery, especially, built 1177-79, offer us a unique opportunity to examine how William of Sens came to use the concept of flying buttresses during the construction of these parts. In addition, William of Sens employed other means of abutting these areas of his building, including a vaulted triforium, diaphragm arches, and wall buttresses. Examination of these practices also suggests that William of Sens's basic training ground was the area around Paris, before he appeared at Canterbury in 11...