Quadrifora

Type of four-light window
Convent/nunnery of the Kalocsa School sisters named after Our Lady, Hungary. Built in 1860.

Quadrifora is a type of four-light window. It appears in towers and belfries on top floors, where it is necessary to lighten the structure with wider openings. The quadrifora can also be a group closely set windows.[1]

Overview

The quadrifora is divided vertically in four parts by three small columns or pilasters, on which four arches rest, round or pointed.[2] Sometimes, the quadrifora is framed by a further larger arch; the space among the arches may be decorated by a coat of arms or a small circular opening.[3]

Less popular than the bifora or trifora, the quadrifora was nevertheless used in the Romanesque, Gothic, and Renaissance periods. In the 19th century, it came back in vogue in the period of eclecticism and the revival of old styles. Compared to the trifora, the quadrifora was generally used for larger and more ornate openings.

Gallery

  • Quadrifora and trifora of the Palazzo del Comune in Piacenza
    Quadrifora and trifora of the Palazzo del Comune in Piacenza
  • Szent István University, Budapest
  • Reglerkirche in Erfurt, Germany
    Reglerkirche in Erfurt, Germany
  • Church Madonna dell’Orto, Venice
    Church Madonna dell’Orto, Venice
  • Palazzo Nani, Venice
    Palazzo Nani, Venice
  • Palazzo Testa, Venice
    Palazzo Testa, Venice

See also

  • Monofora
  • Bifora
  • Trifora
  • Polifora

References

  1. ^ Bollettino (in Italian). the University of California. 1969. p. 359. Retrieved 23 July 2019.
  2. ^ Oppenheimer, Michael (2002). The Monuments of Italy: Central Italy (pt.1) : the regions of Toscana and Umbria. Tauris. p. 147. ISBN 9781860645709. Retrieved 23 July 2019.
  3. ^ Chiese d'Etiopia. Il Monastero di Narga Sellase. Ediz. inglese. Random House Incorporated. 1999. p. 131. ISBN 9788881185290. Retrieved 23 July 2019.