Roof finial, faience, mythological figures, 19th century
Roof finial, faience, mythological figures, 19th century
1.850,00 €
Originally, the ridge cap served a practical purpose, protecting the roof structure at the junction of the ridge and preventing water from seeping in. Over time, it has become a decorative architectural element in general.
The finial is an architectural tradition that is very common in older houses, particularly in French architecture, where it is used to crown and embellish the roof.
Depending on the region and period, finials can take on a variety of forms, ranging from simple geometric patterns to more elaborate figures, such as animals, flowers, or symbolic elements.
Further information
| Dimensions | 29 × 26 × 74 cm |
|---|
Ours is divided into two parts
At the top of our ear of corn, we see a small figure, a child or a cherub, sitting on a fantastical creature, typically a dragon or a sea monster.
This symbolic motif evokes a connection with mythological sea creatures.
At the bottom, the heads resemble classical representations of gods or legendary figures, with beards and elaborate hairstyles, reinforcing the decorative and symbolic aspect of the finial.
These heads are surrounded by shells, a motif often associated with the sea and protection, suggesting a mythological inspiration, potentially linked to sea gods such as Neptune.