<P> A four - centred arch, also known as a depressed arch or Tudor arch, is a low, wide type of arch with a pointed apex . It is much wider than its height and gives the visual effect of having been flattened under pressure . Its structure is achieved by drafting two arcs which rise steeply from each springing point on a small radius, and then turning into two arches with a wide radius and much lower springing point . </P> <P> This type of arch, when employed as a window opening, lends itself to very wide spaces, decoratively filled with many narrow vertical mullions and horizontal transoms . The overall effect produces a grid - like appearance of regular, delicate, rectangular forms with an emphasis on the perpendicular . It is also employed as a wall decoration in which arcade and window openings form part of the whole decorative surface . </P> <P> The style, known as Perpendicular Gothic, which evolved from this treatment, is specific to England, and is very similar to contemporary Spanish style in particular . It was employed to great effect through the 15th century and first half of the 16th, as Renaissance styles were much slower to arrive in England than in Italy and France . </P> <P> It can be seen notably at the East End of Gloucester Cathedral where the East Window is said to be as large as a tennis court . There are three royal chapels and one chapel - like Abbey which show the style at its most elaborate: King's College Chapel, Cambridge; St George's Chapel, Windsor; Henry VII's Chapel at Westminster Abbey, and Bath Abbey . However, numerous simpler buildings, especially churches, built during the wool boom in East Anglia, are demonstrate the style . </P>

Type of arch common in english gothic architecture crossword clue