In architecture, a triangular arch (sometimes angular arch[1]) typically defines an arch where the intrados (inner surface of an arch) consists of two straight segments formed by two stone slabs leaning against each other.[2][3] In this roof-like[4] arrangement, mitre joint is usually used at the crown, thus the arch was in the past also called a mitre arch.[5] Brick builders would call triangular any arch with straight inclined sides.[6]Mayancorbel arches are also sometimes called triangular due to their shape.[7]
Since the sides of a triangular arch are experiencing bending stress, it is a false arch[3] in a structural sense (historically preceding the invention of true arches[8] and going back to Neolithic times[9]). The design was used in Anglo-Saxon England until the late 11th century (St Mary Goslany) over small openings.[2][1]
^Passmore, A.C. (1904). "Mitre arch". Handbook of Technical Terms Used in Architecture and Building and Their Allied Trades and Subjects. Scott, Greenwood, and Company. p. 228. Retrieved 2024-02-27.
^Brick Industry Association] (January 1995). Brick Masonry Arches: Introduction(PDF). Technical Notes on Brick Construction. Brick Industry Association. p. 2.
Audsley, W.; Audsley, G.A. (1881). "Arch". Popular Dictionary of Architecture and the Allied Arts: A Work of Reference for the Architect, Builder, Sculptor, Decorative Artist, and General Student. With Numerous Illustrations from All Styles of Architecture, from the Egyptian to the Renaissance. Popular Dictionary of Architecture and the Allied Arts: A Work of Reference for the Architect, Builder, Sculptor, Decorative Artist, and General Student. G. P. Putnam's sons. pp. 24–39. Retrieved 2024-12-28.
Nikolich, Dimitriye (2020-05-08). "Thrust line analysis of triangular arches". Archive of Applied Mechanics. 90 (9). Springer Science and Business Media LLC: 1861–1874. doi:10.1007/s00419-020-01701-7. ISSN0939-1533.
Sturgis, Russell; Davis, Francis A. (2013). "Triangular Arch". Sturgis' Illustrated Dictionary of Architecture and Building: An Unabridged Reprint of the 1901-2 Edition. Dover Architecture. Dover Publications. ISBN978-0-486-14840-3. Retrieved 2023-12-15.
