Perpendicular.

Perpendicular. the name given to the style of Gothic architecture in England which succeeded the Decorated style. It prevailed from about the much in common, but they derive their names from the features peculiar to each. Thus, the Flamboyant (q.v.) is distinguished by the flowing lines of its tracery; whilst the Perpendicular is remarkable for its stiff and rectilinear lines. The lines of the window-tracery are chiefly vertical, and the mullions are frequently crossed by transoms or horizontal bars. The mouldings are usually thin and hard. The same feeling pervades the other features of the style; the buttresses, piers, towers, &c. are all drawn up and attenuated, and present in their shallow recesses and meagre lines a great contrast to the deep shadows and bold mouldings of the earlier styles. The art of masonry was well understood during the Perpendicular period, and the vaulting was admirably built. Fan-tracery Vaulting (q.v.) belongs to this style. The depressed or four-centre arch is another of its peculiar features. In doorways the arched head is frequently enclosed in a square panel over the arch, with spandrels containing shields, quatrefoils, &c. Panelling was also much used, the walls being frequently almost entirely covered with it, as in Henry VII.'s Chapel at Westminster. There are many well-known buildings of this style. Most of the colleges at Oxford and Cambridge belong to it, and in almost every cathedral and church of importance there are some specimens of it—e.g. William of Wykeham's nave at Winchester (q.v.). Open timber-roads are very common in the Perpendicular style, and are amongst the peculiar and beautiful features of the architecture of England. The roof of Westminster Hall, built by Richard II., is the largest example ever erected.