Kotter Architecture

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The development of architecture in Scandinavia is a prominent theme which has come to light within this Swedish Art course. Notably, the styles of buildings which will be explored differ significantly from personal familiarity, as well as observations, of buildings at home in the United Kingdom. At the same time, these architectural changes provide important reference points for the development of Swedish art; they signify influential factors such as religion and politics, and the subsequent impacts on cultural trends. Moreover, the progressive modifications of architecture also enable key periods in history to be distinguished more easily. Specific focus will be given to the changing architectural styles within Sweden, with references to interiors …show more content…

The overall architectural designs – complimented by interiors suited for worship – provided frameworks to support the emergence of the Catholic Church. Lund Cathedral is a fundamental example of architecture from this period, which started being built in 1103. As well as being of central importance to Lund, the Cathedral is also affiliated with Denmark’s history; it was considered the ‘religious heart’ of Denmark, and served for the congregation between kings and nobility. The construction was important because it required skills and knowledge which had not previously been used in Scandinavia. As a result, Lund became the cultural centre for the development of Romanesque architecture. In turn, this influenced the construction of similar small structures in Scandinavia, such as Borrie church in Ystad, built in the early 1100’s. The basic structure of Romanesque churches derives from the Roman basilica, adopted by the early Christian church in Rome. The orientation of a typical Romanesque church is where the altar lies at the east end, facing Jerusalem. Lund Cathedral consists of an oblong floor plan, with a nave, chancel and an apse. Seen from above, the transept extends beyond the side walls, resulting in a cross shape; this church design came to dominate in Western Europe for many centuries. Lund cathedral …show more content…

The Minster has a wide, decorated Gothic nave and chapter house, a perpendicular Gothic quire and east end, and early English north and south transepts. The nave contains the ‘West Window’ constructed in 1338, with its design colloquially known as ‘The Heart of Yorkshire’. Additionally, situated over the Lady Chapel in the east end is the largest expanse of medieval stained glass in the world. In the south transept, the famous ‘Rose Window’ can also be found. These large, vibrant designs give the Minster a very light, tranquil atmosphere; this juxtaposes to Lund Cathedral, which is distinctively dark. Upon first entering Lund Cathedral, the small windows create a more sombre feel. However, this does not diminish its beauty and culturally fascinating architectural design, which signifies key differences between Romanesque and Gothic

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