I make reproductions of the Labyrinth of the Cathedral of Chartres in stone and on different scales according to a plan that I calculated, built and accomplished according to the research work of John and Odette Ketley-Laporte * and which respects most faithfully the values, proportions and dimensions of the Original.
I also create Labyrinth Hearts, on a given scale.
Click on an image to access the page
See More
See More
See More
See More
See More
See More
I undertake the reproductions of the Labyrinth according to a plan that I calculated, constructed and accomplished according to the research work of John and Odette Ketley-Laporte.
Through its faithful, methodical and meticulous study, this plan is as close as possible to the values, proportions and dimensions of the original labyrinth of the Cathedral of Chartres.
- Study and Design -
The Chartres labyrinth cannot be considered as a simple decorative element. The elaboration of its drawing calls upon the most advanced mathematical knowledge of its time.
It should be recalled that the Middle Ages were obsessed with the certainty that numbers and proportions were the basis for understanding everything.
Each discovery of relationships between numbers or forms was considered as additional evidence of the existence of a universal law.
Thus the Chartres labyrinth bears witness to aesthetic and symbolic research that makes it a unique work.
However, no construction plan of the builders of the time has been found!
Without an exact plan of this labyrinth of such importance, bearing so many meanings, how can we then envisage its reproduction?
Because of its value, it was unconceivable for me that it would be just an approximation, only a copy and enlargement of existing drawings with proportions and details that
were obviously not respected…
It was one of the reference books on the labyrinth, "Chartres, the deciphered labyrinth" that gave me the keys!
The authors John and Odette Ketley-Laporte have meticulously carried out a huge amount of research, reflection and mathematical analysis.
At the time, the unit of measurement was not the decimal system but the Roman foot (294.45 mm), however for some works or constructions such as the Labyrinth, the one of the Project Manager, called "Master's foot" was used.
To elaborate the preparatory scheme of the labyrinth, I therefore based myself on their observations, taking up step by step their reasoning, their analyses and the measures taken on the spot.
After having decimalised the measurements and dimensions (conversion of the Master's foot into meters and cm, I completely recalculated and reconstructed, as faithfully as possible, the geometric figure with the path, the joints, the curves, the scallops and the central rosette...
Once my calculations and trigonometric drawings were completed, I used the D.A.O. (computer-aided drawing) to elaborate the plan on a scale of 1/8 of the original, which then allowed me to divide it and make the templates for cutting the marble..
Through this faithful, methodical and meticulous study, this plan comes as close as possible to the values, proportions and dimensions of the original labyrinth of Chartres Cathedral.
Learn more...
Labyrinth of Chartes Cathedral
History, Origin and Symbolism
Each reproduction requires long work cadenced by many stages.
After scaling the plan with templates, the pieces are cut and then adjusted and ground one by one. They are then positioned and glued according to the tints and hues of each
tessera so as to find in the completed labyrinth the harmony of tones and hues of the original stone used.
Several grouting steps are still needed to fill the interstices and gaps in the pathway.
Labyrinth and labyrinth hearts are made in the workshop, then transported in situ or sent by appropriate transport.
Reproductions to the following scales:
- Labyrinth 1/8 th, diameter Ø 160,7 cm
- Labyrinth 1/16 th, diameter Ø 80,3 cm
- Labyrinth 1/20 th, diameter Ø 64,3 cm
Other scales possible upon request.
Produced mainly in natural stone / marble type Boticcino, Marfil, Travertine ...
Other materials are possible ...
The size of labyrinths equal to or less than 1 / 8th does not allow for mosaic stone in the gaps, the latter is made as a joint.
The joint can be black like the colour of the original labyrinth stone, however for less contrast (B / W), and depending on the colour of the marble, you can choose a lighter shade such as anthracite, gray, brown, beige...
• All labyrinths and labyrinth hearts are water repellent and stain resistant.
• In Picture form : Labyrinths in 1/16 et 1/20th
can be made in wall mosaics to hang / fix. In this case they are framed by a customised iron strapping with welded grip.
The weight of the mosaics being consequent, we create a support : a fixing bar with several hooks, provided with the mosaic and invisible once installed.
• Floors & Walls : The labyrinths can be integrated directly into your floor or wall. They are then laid, glued and joined on site.
Ils sont alors posés, collés et jointés sur place
.
For further information, quotes and orders,
please contact me.
Learn more...
Labyrinthe de la cathédrale de Chartes
History, Origin and Symbolism
© 2019-2024 . Protected works, reproduction prohibited.