The Quadrangle

Quatrefoils

The word quatrefoil etymologically means "four leaves", and applies to general four-lobed shapes in various contexts. In architecture and traditional Christian symbolism, a quatrefoil is a symmetrical shape which forms the overall outline of four partially-overlapping circles of the same diameter. It is most commonly found as tracery, mainly in Gothic architecture, where a quatrefoil can often be seen at the top of a Gothic arch, sometimes with stained glass on the interior.

There are many examples throughout the Quadrangle, and a selection appear below.

• Great Hall quatrefoils
• Clock Tower quatrefoils
• More East range quatrefoils
• Cloister quatrefoils
• Nicholson Gateway quatrefoils
• More quatrefoils

Images are courtesy of the University Secretariat. Click on images for enlargement.

GREAT HALL QUATREFOILS

Above: Three quatrefoils in the blind tracery at the top of the Cambridge stained glass window above the entrance to the Great Hall.

CLOCK TOWER QUATREFOILS

Above: "VR" for "Victoria Regina" at the rear of the Clock Tower.

MORE EAST RANGE QUATREFOILS

Above: Quatrefoils in the Quadrangle - with carvings of heraldic and floral motifs in the centres. The date "1855" is on the front of the Great Hall.

Above: Quatrefoils opposite and on the staircase in the North Vestibule of the East range.

Above: Quatrefoils on an East range door.

CLOISTER QUATREFOILS

Above: Quatrefoils on the cloister wall outside the Nicholson Vestibule.

NICHOLSON GATEWAY QUATREFOILS

Above: Quatrefoils on the wall and staircase leading from the Nicholson Gateway.

MORE QUATREFOILS

Above from left: Quatrefoils on the front of the Western Tower; and quatrefoils on copper rainwater heads in the Vice-Chancellor's Courtyard.

LB