**Historical Significance of Transoms in Architecture:**
– Early Gothic ecclesiastical work featured transoms in belfry unglazed windows or spire lights.
– Transoms were initially used to reinforce mullions in the absence of iron stay bars.
– In the later Gothic period, transoms became common in windows, especially in the Perpendicular Period.
– Transoms were introduced in various types of windows during the later Gothic period, serving a similar purpose to iron stay bars in glazed windows.
**Functional Aspects of Transom Windows:**
– Transom windows provided cross-ventilation while ensuring security and privacy.
– Before the advent of central air conditioning, transom windows were prevalent in apartments, homes, and office buildings.
– Transom operators were utilized to open transom windows, with mechanical arrangements in industrial buildings.
– Schools and other structures also incorporated transom windows for ventilation purposes.
**Idiomatic Usage and Symbolism of Transoms:**
– ‘Over the transom’ refers to works submitted for publication without prior request.
– The phrase symbolizes a writer metaphorically tossing a manuscript through a publisher’s office window.
– It can also describe the anonymous delivery of confidential documents or large waves bringing water over a ship’s transom.
– The folk idiom ‘like pushing a piano through a transom’ signifies an extremely challenging task.
**Cultural References:**
– In French, transom windows are known as ‘vasistas,’ derived from the German phrase ‘was ist das?’ meaning ‘what is that?’
– Traditional Japanese architecture features architectural details called ‘ranma,’ which can range from simple dividers to intricate wooden carvings.
– ‘Ranma’ elements traditionally welcome visitors and are often positioned above doors in Japanese buildings.
**Related Architectural Elements:**
– Additional architectural elements associated with transoms include roof lanterns, sidelights, skylights, and fortochkas.
– For more information, one can refer to ‘transom window’ on Wiktionary or explore related media on Wikimedia Commons.
In architecture, a transom is a transverse horizontal structural beam or bar, or a crosspiece separating a door from a window above it. This contrasts with a mullion, a vertical structural member. Transom or transom window is also the customary U.S. word used for a transom light, the window over this crosspiece. In Britain, the transom light is usually referred to as a fanlight, often with a semi-circular shape, especially when the window is segmented like the slats of a folding hand fan. A prominent example of this is at the main entrance of 10 Downing Street, the official residence of the British prime minister.
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Definition from ChatGPT:
Transom (architecture):
In architecture, a transom refers to a horizontal structural beam or bar that separates a door from a window above it. Transoms are often found above doors and windows in traditional buildings and serve both decorative and functional purposes, allowing additional light to enter a room while maintaining structural integrity.