Lancetbågar

Lancetbågar, a Swedish term, refers to a specific architectural element characterized by a pointed arch. This type of arch is notably narrower and more sharply pointed than the equilateral arch, with its apex positioned higher. The term "lancet" itself is evocative of the pointed shape, resembling a lance or a sharp blade.

These arches are a prominent feature of Gothic architecture, particularly during the Early English Gothic period, which flourished in England from the late 12th to the mid-13th century. Lancet windows, often found in pairs or triplets, are a defining characteristic of this architectural style. They are typically tall and slender, contributing to the sense of verticality and lightness associated with Gothic cathedrals and churches. The narrowness of the lancet arch allows for larger window openings relative to the overall wall structure, facilitating the illumination of interior spaces.

Beyond windows, lancet arches can also be found in doorways, arcades, and decorative tracery. Their simple yet elegant form lent itself to repetition and embellishment. While most strongly associated with English Gothic, the lancet arch was also employed in Gothic architecture in other parts of Europe, though perhaps with regional variations in proportion and application. The term "lancetbågar" specifically denotes this pointed arch form within the context of architectural history and terminology.