The bellows motif is a decorative pattern used in architecture from the 14th to the 16th century as an openwork design in window grilles and balustrades, as well as in bas-relief on woodwork and exterior walls. It is a figure with symmetrical contours, unlike the “mouchette,” with which it is often associated.

Definition A soufflet In English, the soufflet is called a dagger. is a geometric motif shaped like an “acute ellipse, serrated on the intrados and straight,” which appeared in the decoration of Gothic windows in the 14th century. It shares the same characteristics as the mouchette, except that the latter’s curves are asymmetrical, appearing twisted like those of a flame. It is formed of curves and counter-curves that converge in a spearhead shape on one side of the figure, with the other end being more rounded, or on both sides. Within this pattern, two serrations connect two motifs of different sizes with curvilinear shapes and more or less pronounced rounded edges that face each other.

The assembly consisting of bellows, mullions, and other elements is structured by the tracery and generally forms either the upper part of a lancet window—known as a “network”—or a rose window.

History

The soufflet first appeared at the beginning of the 14th century, between 1300 and 1310, together with the mouchette in the window tracery of the English Curvilinear Gothic style, where both motifs became widespread after 1320. For example, they appear in the windows of the Lady Chapel of St Albans Cathedral, dating from 1308 or shortly thereafter.

In France, the motif appeared somewhat later,, during the Flamboyant Gothic period, chiefly in the tracery—that is, the upper part of the window tracery of stained-glass windows—and in rose windows.

Use The soufflet is also found as an openwork motif in tympana of portals and windows, and in balustrades, for example in triforia such as that of the transept of Nantes Cathedral. It is also carved in bas-relief, as in the north aisle of the 16th-century Évreux Cathedral, where it also appears individually in the balustrade of the gallery above the windows. It can also be seen in one of the flying buttresses of Amiens Cathedral, where it may have been added during a 19th-century restoration.

Associated with mouchettes and various other geometric figures, the soufflet also appears on its own, either crowning trefoiled lancets or arranged in opposed pairs within balustrades.

See also

Mouchette Tracery Stained glass

Notes

References

fr: Soufflet (ornement)