LESSON B-3

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CLAY GARGOYLE Made with by Wings of Dave Gallery

ORIGIN 2

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Myth The gargoyle is a fantasy and horror monster.

The name gargoyle is often attributed to St. Romanus (c. 631 – 641 AD). According to legend, he saved his country from a monster by the name of Gargouille, a dragon with bat-like wings, a long neck, and the ability to breathe fire from its mouth.

The monster was subdued and burned, but its head and neck would not burn. The head was then mounted on the church to scare off evil spirits, and used for protection.

Since then, gargoyles have become guardians of a place.

Fact The word "Gargoyle" originates from the old French word "Gargouille" meaning "throat" but which also describes the gurgling sound of water as it is coming down the downspout.  

The gargoyle is one of the most recognisable characteristics of Gothic architecture.

Are gargoyles good or evil?

FUNCTIONS 3

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Some gargoyles serve as water spouts that divert rain water from building foundations. This explains their open mouths and long necks.

Some are ornamental, meaning they didn’t provide a function apart from being decorative.

Notre Dame de Paris Tower Bridge Westminster Abbey

LOOK UP! 4

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When you look up some medieval buildings of Western Europe, you may find gargoyles peering down from the roofs and battlements of buildings. Clinging to edges and ledges, these stone carvings take the form of human or animals or fantastic beasts.

FEATURES 5

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Describe the features of gargoyles you have seen on the previous page. Sketch your creations on a blank paper. Then hand sculpt their forms in clay.

frightening

comical

lively expressions laughing

face

animated pose

tongues sticking out

devil horns

google-eyed

oversized wings

missing toothsharp teeth funny

nose

handlebar moustache

long face

angry

hands covering

eyes

mouth wide open

SCULPTING - STEP BY STEP 6

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Tips: break down an object into pieces, sculpt each individual pieces and then assemble them together.