Geometric tools in Juan de Álava's stonecutting workshop

摘要

Stonemasonry of the Gothic vault in itsudtotality is based upon geometry of the line,udwhereas classic stereotomy relies on theudcomprehensive knowledge of the surface and theudhighly sophisticated sides of the voussoirsudnecessary for its vaults. It is obvious that this leapudin the art of construction was paralleled andudaccompanied by an extension of the horizons ofudgeometry. In Spain, it was made possible thanksudto the centuries-old tradition of stone buildingudbegun in the most remote medieval times and toudthe presence of outstanding architects orudstonemasons such as Juan de Álava, whoseudprofessional work surpassed the established limitsudand provided the art of building with newudinstruments.