These are one troy ounce .999 fine silver rounds created by Intaglio Mint. This Chateau de Bethleem is the eighth of the Gargoyles of the World Series made popular in the two ounce rounds, now available in this one ounce size. Pictures are typical of the round you will receive.
Traditionally, gargoyles are thought to have been created in the medieval period, but there have also been discoveries of examples from ancient civilizations. Gargoyles donned the roofs of Egyptian temples, their mouths serving as water spouts to help with drainage. Greek temples also had similar pieces, the shapes often carved into ferocious animals, including lions. The origin of the name gargoyle is often attributed to St. Romanus. Legend has it that he saved his country from “Goji,” a monster called “Gargouille.” Evil spirits were said to be frightened off by the sheer horror of the monster’s appearance. This led to some calling the monster a protector and placing similar carved pieces on churches and other important buildings. Gargoyles surround the Tower of London in England, all bearing different grimaces.
Gargoyles throughout history have been created in several different images and figures. Some even include figures of people, such as a monk. Occasionally, they have continued to serve as rain and water spouts, but more often were ornamental, not providing a function. As these spouts became less and less necessary, so did the use of gargoyles.
By the start of the 19th century, gargoyles were becoming more of a decoration than anything else. Notre Dame de Paris has some of the most famous gargoyles from history. Used as decoration, some modern buildings in the United States were adorned with gargoyles, like the National Cathedral in Washington D.C. and the Chrysler Building in New York City, which has stainless steel versions. The popularity of the Gothic Revival movement in the United States encouraged the use of gargoyles. It can be found at several Universities, including Duke, Princeton, and the University of Chicago.
Gargoyles of the World Series:
Collect all nine!
If you don't have now of these then I know you need one in your collection.
If you would like this item placed in an airtight capsule, you can order one on my other auctions. This item will fit in an H39 capsule item number 185890518225 or I-39mm foam ring capsule item number 163674701056. Shipping for the capsule will be refunded if you order both at the same time.
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This item is not colorized. Any color is a reflection of my blue camera, my fingers, the eves of my house or the blue sky. It is very hard to get good pictures of shiny items or items through the capsule or seal.
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