Arts & Culture
Symbolism of Light and Dark in Gothic Architecture
Quick fact
Abbot Suger of Saint-Denis, the 12th-century founder of Gothic style, believed that light itself was a direct manifestation of God, and his writings inspired the radiant windows and soaring vaults that defined the age.
Why this is interesting
Stand inside a Gothic cathedral and notice how the dark pillars draw your gaze upward to brilliant, jewel-toned windows. Why would builders deliberately create such stark contrast between shadow and light?