What is an archivolt?
An archivolt is a decorative moulding or band that follows the outer curve of an arch opening. It is an ornamental border that visually emphasises the arch and is often adorned with carvings, profiles or ornaments.
Characteristics
- Follows the arch form — the archivolt runs along the curve of the arch from one impost to the other
- Often multiple — in Romanesque and Gothic churches, several archivolts are placed concentrically beside each other
- Decorative — embellished with geometric patterns, foliage, figures or a simple profile
- Part of the portal — particularly at church doorways, the archivolts form a striking ensemble
Historical occurrence
The archivolt is a characteristic element in several style periods:
- Romanesque — thick, round archivolts with geometric motifs such as zigzag lines and bead mouldings
- Gothic — pointed archivolts with rows of figures depicting saints, angels or biblical scenes
- Renaissance — restrained, classically profiled archivolts above round-arched windows
- Baroque — richly decorated archivolts with flower garlands and cherubs
Application
Archivolts are found mainly at:
- Church portals — the main entrance of Romanesque and Gothic churches
- Cloisters — the arcaded walks surrounding an inner courtyard
- Palaces and town halls — decorative arches above windows and doors
- Bridges — sometimes the arch ring of a stone bridge is detailed as an archivolt
Related terms
- Arch
- Arcade
- Ornament
- Gothic
- Portal
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