Final answer:
A "course of keystones" is essential in masonry vaults, locking voussoirs into place to create a stable, weight-bearing arch. This technique showcases the craftsmanship of stonemasons and is complemented by architectural features like buttresses that ensure structural integrity.
Step-by-step explanation:
The role of a "course of keystones" in the crown of a masonry vault is crucial for architectural design and construction. In an arch, the keystone is the central voussoir that plays a crucial role in locking all other wedge-shaped stones into place. This design not only creates a stable and aesthetically pleasing structure but also allows the arch to bear significant weight without the need for adhesives like glue or mortar.
The mastery involved in the creation of these arches, especially when seen in structures like Durham Cathedral, reflects the advancing skill of stonemasons during periods such as Romanesque and Gothic architecture. Buttresses are often employed in conjunction with keystones to manage the lateral forces exerted by vaults, ensuring that the integrity of the structure is maintained and allowing for light to enter through windows.A "course of keystones" is essential in masonry vaults, locking voussoirs into place to create a stable, weight-bearing arch. This technique showcases the craftsmanship of stonemasons and is complemented by architectural features like buttresses that ensure structural integrity.