Bridlington Priory The Nave
In
order to obtain a general idea of the magnificence and size of the
Priory the Visitor should enter by the SW tower door and, then
turning immediately to the left, let his gaze travel over the North
side of the Nave. Perhaps this is the most impressive and beautiful
view to be obtained.
The North Side
Observe now in more detail the North side, noting first the
clustered pillars springing from quadrangular bases.
Each pillar is composed of four large shafts at the angles and
between them in pairs are eight smaller shafts, making twelve in
all. The height and girth are superbly proportioned, and the plain
capitals add further to the restrained dignity and majesty of the
pillars crowned with arcading which dates from about 1250. The ten
bays of early English arcading lose nothing of their bold lines in
the deep mouldings which adorn them. With the exception of the two
eastern-most arches all have a label terminating either in a head or
foliage perfectly carved. The decorated triforium and derestory,
which were added about 1270 bring added lustre to the arcading. Note
the tracery work exquisitely designed both in the semi-circular and
pointed-arch. This "blind triforium", crowned with the clerestory,
which contains a gallery running from East to West, gives a richness
and grace to the North side which has no peer in the country. |
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