High Gothic

High Gothic

Reims Cathedral (1211-1299)
Years active	approx. 1200 to 1280

High Gothic was a period of Gothic architecture in the 13th century, from about 1200 to 1280, which saw the construction of a series of refined and richly-decorated cathedrals of exceptional height and size. It appeared most prominently in France, largely thanks to support given by King Louis IX(1226-1270).^[1] The goal of High Gothic architects was to bring the maximum possible light from the stained glass windows, and to awe the church goers with lavish decoration.^[1] High Gothic is often described as the high point of the Gothic style.^[2][3]

High Gothic was a period, rather than a specific style; during the High Gothic period, the Rayonnant style was predominant. Notable High Gothic cathedrals in the Rayonnant style included Reims Cathedral, Amiens Cathedral, Bourges Cathedral, Chartres Cathedral, and Beauvais Cathedral.^[4]

The Innovations during the High Gothic period included the reduction of the levels of the nave interior from four to three by merging the Gothic triforium and clerestory. This allowed much larger stained glass windows, which filled the cathedrals with light.^[1] The added interior light called for more ornate interior decoration, which was provided by adding designs in stone tracery on the walls.

The period also saw the use of realistic sculpture to decorate both the interior and the exterior, particularly over the church portals. This was influenced by ancient Roman sculpture, which had recently been discovered in Italy.^[5]

British and American historians divide the Gothic era into three periods: Early Gothic architecture; High Gothic, including the Rayonnant style, and Late Gothic, including the Flamboyant style. French historians divide the era into four similar phases, Primary Gothic, Gothique Classique or Classic Gothic, Rayonnant Gothic and late Gothic, or Flamboyant.