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Gothic Arch from Cologne

An arch gothic window from Cologne Cathedral (Germany)

Online Courses (Live sessions - recorded), Upcoming

Level

Advanced: It is necessary to have a basic knowledge of geometric drawing and some precision in tracing.
There will be overlapping construction lines, and small details.

Duration

2 Live sessions (recorded)
around 3h each
21 & 22 February 2025
4pm Paris Time

Format

A3 (29,7 mm x 42 mm) or equivalent recommended
With compass extension or beam compass, and a small compass for details

Price
65€

About the Pattern

This arch is a magnificent example of Gothic architectural ornamentation, like the rest of Cologne Cathedral (Germany).


The geometric construction is truly interesting, but it requires a good deal of precision to be fully satisfying. You can absolutely enrol even if your drawings are not extremely precise; the construction is still well worth exploring.


The 2 lower arches may not seem like much but it’s quite tricky to have all the elements fit nicely (and tangentially) together! In the construction I have found it also all depend on the main Arch level already having a thickness. So in the course we will definitely add this thickness to the main structure (as shown in the image).


I am also tempted to do all the level of thickness for this drawing, although I am not sure yet if it would fit in the 2 sessions I planned (always so hard to know how long a new pattern will take to teach). So I will do some more tests, and if it seems like it doesn’t fit I might plan an additional optional session (to be purchased separately).


What will be included for sure in the 2 sessions are: the main arch structure with thickness and all the other detail elements of the tracery (just the structure line, without the tracery).

Course Content

The course will take place over two sessions (around 3 hours each).


If you want to use your biggest compass extension and your smallest compass on the same drawing while working on your precision: this course is for you! (not for beginners).


It is recommended to work in A3 format, and to have a compass with a good extension or a beam compass (opening to 26 cm) as well as a small compass for details (optional).


As usual, a PDF with the main steps will be provided. The replay videos will be accessible for several years (or until the end of my activity). Attendance at the live sessions is not required; you can follow the course at your own pace.

Links to Other Courses

For an exploration of somewhat simpler arches, and understanding of the principles, have a look at this course on arches: Gothic Arches - Proportions & Ornaments

Required Materials

-Standard or drawing paper (120 to 250gsm), A3 (29,7 cm x 42 cm) or equivalent.
-A4 (or A3) tracing paper (optional)
-Compass with extension or beam compass: compass opening to 23-24cm
-A small compass for details (optional but useful)
-40 cm ruler (can work with 30cm)
-Pencil or mechanical pencil (0.5 or 0.3) and eraser
-A few coloured pencils (optional)
-Fineliners or markers with a pen attachment for the compass (optional)

Material Advice Video

Access

Course materials (video recordings, PDFs, images, etc.) will be accessible through your member area on this site.

The recordings will be accessible for several years.
If they need to be taken down, registered participants will be informed several months in advance.

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