 The evolution was largely linked to and dependent upon the structural and ornamental flexibility of the pointed arch.This development is traditionally divided into periods or styles according to the system of the 19th century French archaeologist Arcisse de Caumont.The periods are generally called Early Gothic (1137–1180), High Gothic (1180–1230), Rayonnant Gothic (1230–1350 and Flamboyant Gothic (1350–1530).