Innovative vaulting in the architecture of the Roman Empire : 1st to 4th centuries CE /

Lancaster, Lynne C., 1964-

Innovative vaulting in the architecture of the Roman Empire : 1st to 4th centuries CE / Lynne C. Lancaster, Ohio University. - Cambridge : Cambridge University Press, (c)2015. - 1 online resource

Title from publisher's bibliographic system (viewed on 11 Feb 2016).

Includes bibliographies and index.

1. Introduction -- 2. Opus Caementicium -- 3. Barrel vaults of brick -- 4. Complex vault forms of brick -- 5. Vaulting tubes -- 6. Hollow voussoirs -- 7. Vaulting ribs of armchair voussoirs -- 8. Vault behavior and structural form -- 9. Vaulting techniques in context.

This book studies six vaulting techniques employed in architecture outside of Rome and asks why they were invented where they were and how they were disseminated. Most of the techniques involve terracotta elements in various forms, such as regular flat bricks, hollow voussoirs, vaulting tubes, and armchair voussoirs. Each one is traced geographically via GIS mapping, the results of which are analysed in relation to chronology, geography, and historical context. The most common building type in which the techniques appear is the bath, demonstrating its importance as a catalyst for technological innovation. This book also explores trade networks, the pottery industry, and military movements in relation to building construction, revealing how architectural innovation was influenced by wide ranging cultural factors, many of which stemmed from local influences rather than imperial intervention. Additional resources including extensive searchable databases with bibliographical data and colour illustrations available at www.cambridge.org/vaulting.



9781107444935 9781316458389 9781316457900


Vaults (Architecture)--Rome.
Building, Terra-cotta--Rome.
Architecture, Roman.
Architecture and society--Rome.


Electronic Books.

TH2160 / .I566 2015