Most of us have seen beautiful cross-like attachments on the top of buildings and architecture but do you know what these are and what their significance is? These structures are called weathervanes which were used for years to show direction but are now just showpieces. There are a wide variety of weathervane designs that are used atop a myriad of buildings to accentuate their beauty and appearance.
Below I have made a list of some of the most classic examples of weathervane designs. You can have a look at it to get a clearer picture.
Moving Swiftly
Weathervanes were introduced in the 1600s but came into popularity during the 1800s. This was when some national manufacturers provided the supply of copper symbols. One of the widely used weathervane designs was the racing horse, which was especially regarded for stables and barns. It was a representation of eliteness.
Steer Clear
Many weathervanes were also molded in symbols that represented agriculture, such as bulls. During the time of installation, a compass is used for determining the weathervane’s cardinal points.
Scribe on High
Weathervanes with the design of a quill are typically a representation of a writer’s or statesman’s residence. In such cases, the weathervane spires are usually carved out of wrought iron.
Flying Fish
Copper weathervanes were also developed with a fish design for a beautiful patina. It was a true representation of age and authenticity—also, the tall spires above the weathervane work as a lightning rod.
Whale’s Tail
This is one of the most popular choices among the people of the 18th century. Whale weathervanes were used to represent the homes of seafarers in coastal areas.
Miss Fortune
Sailors used to consider the mermaid bad luck as the legends say that the mermaid lures them with songs to their death. Still, mermaid weathervanes were widely used across the world because of their grace and a touch of a silhouette against the blue sky.
Welcome Home
Weathervanes with pineapple designs were used as a symbol to welcome guests during the colonial era. It was also widely popular among inns and was a representation to distinguish them.
Flying Goose
Magnificently set against the endless sky, flying goose weathervanes appear to be lifelike with the beautiful movement of their wings and craned necks. This appears to be extremely elegant and elicits the true essence of a real goose.
Sailing Away
The design of sailing weathervanes is a representation of independence. Since a sailboat is also dependable on the wind as its source of power to move ahead, “sailing away” weathervanes are still widely popular among sailors.
The Bottom Line
Of course, in today’s world, we no longer need weathervanes to check the direction of the wind or its speed. We have technologies to do that. However, these beautiful architectures are adored because of their classy and elegant appearance. With a wide variety of designs, weathervanes still manage to make a place for themselves in modern construction.
Leave a Reply
Tell us what you think!