A Grotesque in Strasbourg - 8 Metal Print

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On the façade of Strasbourg’s Cathedral or Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Strasbourg, as on most Medieval cathedrals, many of the fantastic creatures perched on these buildings are not gargoyles at all. Rather, they're grotesques. A gargoyle is a grotesque that also acts as drain-spout. Grotesques are decorative elements of Gothic architecture that didn’t become popular until around the 13th century beginning in France, though earlier editions existed in different cultures for centuries.
Though they differ in function, gargoyles and grotesques were intended to frighten and protect. Consequently, intimidating animals, exotic hybrids (called chimera), mythical creatures, and even unsettling humans were popular subjects across both types of sculpture—though some are more humorous than hair-raising. The gargoyles that adorned the ends of waterspouts on Gothic churches had the added function to move water away from the exterior walls.

'The real voyage of discovery consists not in seeking new landscapes but in having new eyes.' ~ Marcel Proust, writer, Paris, 1871-1922. My photographs are not merely a record of what was before my camera, but rather my visualization of the place and time as I remember discovering it, be it a particular mood, impression, or ambiance. These images may bring back memories of your own travels or they might inspire, you in some small way to venture off and maybe discover exciting, new landscapes of your own. But in the meantime, consider placing one of these photographs on your wall as a window to foreign lands. A note to those who purchase one of my images, you have my deepest thanks. I am honored that you have chosen one of my photographs...