Schouw met kap 1885 - 1895

This is a drawing of a chimney hood in the Gothic style by Michel Berthaud. Notice the gargoyles perched atop the structure. These grotesque figures, often found on Gothic cathedrals, served as symbolic guardians, warding off evil spirits. However, consider their evolution. In ancient Egypt, similar figures protected temples, while in medieval Europe, they became associated with the monstrous and demonic. Here, they are domesticated, adorning a domestic space, a fireplace. Reflect on the psychological implications. Are these gargoyles merely decorative, or do they tap into our primal fears and anxieties? The Gothic style itself evokes a sense of the sublime, a mixture of awe and terror, engaging viewers on a visceral level. Observe how these symbols are not static. They are constantly in flux, adapting to new cultural contexts, reflecting our ever-evolving relationship with the sacred and the profane, the beautiful and the monstrous. The enduring appeal of these symbols lies in their ability to resonate with our collective memory.