277 - Gargoyle and its anchorage (13th century)

Gargoyle and its anchorage (13th century) A carved monolith of cut stone depicting a seated dog. Early Gothic—Lower Poitou? L.: 125 cm / H.: 32 cm / W.: 23 cm Widened exterior drain and anchor stone drilled at a later date during a modern reuse. Additional photographs available upon request. The simplified rendering of the dog’s head and muzzle echoes certain modillions found on Romanesque buildings in Lower Poitou and Saintonge (St. Savinien – Melle), but it was not until the 13th century and the Gothic period that the first gargoyles appeared in France. This discrepancy between simplified figuration and sophisticated architectural design allows us to date this sculpture to the Early Gothic period, specifically the 13th century. The tool marks, clearly visible on the anchor stone and in the gutter (the exterior drainage channel), contribute to the beauty and authenticity of this rare piece. EXPERT: Mr. Laurent DESSE, Member of the Compagnie des Experts en Art & Antiquités, affiliated with the European Confederation of Art Experts - ldesse.artexpertise@gmail.com - expertisedart.fr