fourcentered

Fourcentered is a term used in architecture to describe an arch profile formed by four circular arcs, each with its own center. The arcs join to create a continuous curve that yields a distinctive, moderately pointed crown while maintaining a broad, graceful profile.

In construction, the fourcentered arch is defined by its four centers and corresponding radii, arranged to produce a balanced shape. The outer legs are formed by arcs that meet the springing points, while the central portion is composed of additional arcs that shape the crown. The resulting geometry often combines characteristics of a pointed arch with softer, rounded transitions, allowing a relatively wide span without a tall rise. The radii can be varied to adjust the degree of pointedness and overall elegance.

Historically, the fourcentered arch appears in multiple architectural traditions, including Islamic, Persian, Indian, and Moorish contexts, where it is valued for both its aesthetic refinement and its structural utility. It has been used in doorways, windows, and decorative openings, serving as a versatile solution for complex curves in stone and brickwork. In architectural history and restoration, the fourcentered arch is studied as part of the broader family of arch profiles that explore the relationship between form, proportion, and engineering. It is sometimes referred to as a four-centered arch or four-centered ogee variant in various sources.