Definition of Basket Handle Arch within Pub Architecture.
A Basket-Handle Arch, sometimes referred to as Anse de Penier, is a three-centred arch having a crown with a radius much greater than that of the outer pair of curves.
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In this example at the Waggon and Horses at Halesowen, stone voussoirs were alternated between sets of four tapered bricks to form a basket-handle arches for the window apertures. They combine to form a striking effect.
This example of a Basket-Handle Arch was photographed at the Three Crowns at Hill Top. Such a three-centred arch is somewhat flattened providing the effect of a false ellipse.
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Many of the examples I have seen of a Basket-Handle Arch are deployed in the windows of a tavern. Here one can see a walk-through version inside the Barton's Arms at Aston. However, this was a conversion of an interior window display, the glass of which can be seen in the background as a wall panel. I would think that a joist is used above this arch as this is a load-bearing wall.