OAE Content Knowledge Assessments – Art (006) Practice Test 2025 - Free Art Practice Questions and Study Guide

The presence of pointed arches and flying buttresses is a hallmark of Gothic architecture, which developed in the High and Late Middle Ages, primarily from the 12th to the 16th centuries. Pointed arches allowed for greater height and more complex designs compared to the rounded arches of Romanesque architecture. This technique not only facilitated the construction of taller buildings but also improved the distribution of weight, enabling the incorporation of larger windows.

Flying buttresses are another defining feature of Gothic architecture. These external support structures counteract the lateral forces pushing out on the walls, which allowed architects to create thinner walls and install expansive stained glass windows. This combination of structural innovation not only enhanced the aesthetic appeal of Gothic cathedrals and churches but also transformed how light was used within these sacred spaces, creating an ethereal atmosphere.

Overall, the use of pointed arches and flying buttresses represents the innovative engineering and artistic vision characteristic of the Gothic style, making this answer the correct choice.