Grotesques, and Chimeras, and Gargoyles! Oh My!
Now that we know a little history, let's get a little bit technical. Many of the statues you see today are not considered gargoyles. According to the code of architecture, a gargoyle is really a waterapout that directs water away from a building. Meanwhile, a creature stone carving that does not carry water is called a "grotesque". Some grotesques and gargoyles have bodies that combine many different creatures. These are defined as "Chimeres". The picture to the left was taken by my sister in Germany, Neuwanstein. It's not a gargoyle, but a chimere. |