Bishop's Eye Window, Lincoln Cathedral Some serious design challenges, are met and conquered, in the project of forming a rose window (circular) built from curvilinear tracery (cement framework that holds the glass in place.) They did it by first breaking the circle into manageable interlocking sub-forms, and then rebuilding the design into a cohesive whole. The repeating sub-forms or shape themes, and color motifs, give the rose windows strength and satisfying unity. These were pretty difficult design challenges, and not for the weak at heart; that's why it's pretty rare for a cathedral to have one. Lincoln has two, the Dean's Eye, and the Bishop's Eye. (at right)
Dean's Eye Window, Lincoln Cathedral Most rose windows are based on a radial design, meaning the design repeats symmetrically, radiating out from the center. The Dean's Eye is a good example (right). The Bishop's Eye (original from the year 1220, rebuilt in 1330s) is unusual in its interlocking leaf forms-- that are symmetrical but not radial.
See more great pictures of Lincoln Cathedral. Plan a trip, maybe.
See more great pictures of Lincoln Cathedral. Plan a trip, maybe.
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