Ancient_and_modern_York_a_guide

52 ANCIENT AND
antiquary and traveller, as being the oldest portion of the
present structure, if we except the chapter house, which is
supposed to have been constructed about the same time.
The front of this transept is divided by buttresses into
three parts corresponding with the division of the interior
into three aisles. In the central compartment is the porch,
which is approached by a spacious double flight of steps,
and which forms the usual entrance to the Cathedral. This
porch, we are informed, was some years ago partly restored.
At the same time the ancient clock over the entrance, sur
mounted by two statues in the armour of Henry VII., was
removed to make room for the modern dial ; and several of
the columns and arches, and the pediment, were at the
same time altered. On each side are two windows, and
above it three large lights occupy the central compartment.
Over these appear the great circular window so justly cele
brated, which may be said to form the noblest decoration
of this part of the church. It consists of two concentric
circles, of small columns, and trefoil arches ; the centre and
spandrils of which are pierced. The effect of this window
when the sun shines upon the richly painted glass with
which it is glazed is very striking ; indeed it is difficult
to meet with a window that will bear comparison. The
North Transept opposite, is illuminated by a peculiar
and elegant lancet window, called " the five sisters;" the
lights of which are fifty feet high, and five feet wide.
Passing through the south transept the attention is
immediately arrested by the Stone Screen which sepa
rates the choir from the nave. " As an architectural and
sculptured object," remarks the author of the English
cathedrals, " it is at once splendid and gorgeous. Its
western face, or exterior, is covered with a superabundance
of niches, canopies, brackets, pinnacles, crocketts, finials,
statues, masks, &cc. It seems that the artist was deter
mined to charge every part with ornaments ; and to exert
the fullest latitude of fancy in giving variety and intricacy
to its complicated members. Near its centre is an arched