Catenary arch

The Tāq-i Kisrā is a Persian monument built Iraq It was damaged in floods in 1888 and was busy being restored before the 1st gulf work broke out it differs from later western arches in that it is a parabolic arch which is much stronger.

Catenary arch

The Gate way arch in St Louis, Missouri uses the catenary shape to use as little material possible to make the arch.

Catenary arch

Catenary arches under the terrace of Casa Milà

Catenary arch

I find arches interesting because they are strong but they look very delicate because they create negative space. The 1st arch i found interesting was the Lancet arch. When I started to analyze why I liked arches I discovered it was because they use the least material to give the most strength. This made me look for the strongest type of arch that's when I found the Catenary arch. This arches shape comes from the shape a chain makes when you hold it at the ends and let it hang. If you take this basic shape and turn it upside down it makes a very strong arch shape. This shape is called a parabola and is the basis for the curves I put on my jewellery.

Beginning of curves

My attraction to curves started with the Lancet arch. This arch is widely used in Gothic architecture because it allows you to build tall buildings. Gothic architecture was all about building tall to get closer to god. I like the way the arch is used to frame these windows and also provides the strength needed to hold the structure up. I love the way arches serve a function by holding up the building but also are visually pleasing to look at.