Frieze Patterns

Frieze patterns have a translational symmetry, so that they repeat and form a strip. There are only seven possible kinds of frieze symmetry.

None of the 7 frieze symmetry groups is particularly hard to find at the Cathedral. Surprisingly (since it has very little symmetry), p111 may be the most rare.

p111

This has only a translation symmetry.


Blessed Sacrament Chapel, wall.

Outside.

p112

This has a translation, as well as 180 degree rotations evenly spaced.


Central Dome, pulpit detail.

p1m1

This has a translation, and a reflection line down the center.


Narthex, on pillar.


Bishop's Hall, ceiling.

pm11

This has a translation, and evenly spaced reflections crossing the pattern.


Narthex, wall.


Central Dome, pulpit detail.

pmm2

This has a translation, evenly spaced reflections crossing the pattern, a reflection line down the center, and 180 degree rotations.


All Saints Chapel, floor.

p1a1

This has a glide reflection.


Blessed Sacrament Chapel, wall.


Blessed Virgin's Chapel, floor.

pma2

This has a glide reflection, evenly spaced reflectons crossing the pattern, and 180 degree rotations.


Southeast corner (outside), gate.