Gothic Style MouldingsApproximately 1180 to 1520Introduced by France, Gothic architecture was characterized by vaulted roofs, pointed arches, buttresses and spires. These large structures were supported by mouldings, which served as a mammoth skeleton. The mouldings, or ribs, are most evident in the vaulted ceilings of Gothic buildings. Rather than having a decorative function, Gothic mouldings served primarily as weight bearers. Their hollows had great depth and featured dog-tooth ornament.