Masonry arches: arches formed from arcs struck from more than four centres (complex multi-centred profiles) are commonly referred to as which type?

Introduction / Context:Arch profiles are defined by the number and arrangement of centres used to strike their arcs. Beyond simple circular or two-centred pointed forms, multi-centred arches create distinctive architectural effects. This question targets recognition of the arch type associated with more than four centres.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Terminology includes lancet (two-centred), drop/segmental (three-centred), Tudor (four-centred), and ogee (compound, often multi-centred with reverse curvature).
• “More than four centres” suggests a complex, multi-centred layout.

Concept / Approach:An ogee arch features a concave and a convex curve meeting at a point, typically generated from multiple centres to achieve the S-shaped profile; many historical treatises describe ogees using four or more centres, and complex variants may use more than four to refine curvature.

Step-by-Step Solution:Match “more than four centres” to arch families.Lancet (two), drop (three), Tudor or typical Gothic (four) are fewer-centred.Ogee (compound S-curve) often employs multiple centres; fits the description.Select “Ogee arches.”

Verification / Alternative check:Architectural references depict ogees struck from multiple centres for refined curvature beyond four-centred Tudor profiles.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• Gothic/Tudor: characteristically four-centred, not more.
• Drop gothic: three-centred depressed arch.
• Two-curved/lancet: two-centred.

Common Pitfalls:Equating all pointed arches with “Gothic” regardless of centre count; overlooking the reverse curvature in ogee profiles.

Final Answer:Ogee arches