Fallen angels never had it so good.
Gargoyles crafted in the Middle Ages were thought to embody such spirits, who had to “redeem” themselves by guarding the soaring Gothic structures of the time. But these whimsical and eccentric creatures are taking center stage today, enhancing verdant gardens instead of merely adorning stony edifices.
“There’s a romantic mood evolving right now,” says Kathleen Mahoney, author of the just-released book “Gothic Style” (Abrams), “and we’re interested in the supernatural and angels.” Which may explain why the gargoyle “captures the mood of the moment,” points out Marilyn Stopka, co-owner of the Design Toscano store in Arlington Heights.
RESOURCES
Gargoyle wall relief available at Architectural Revolution, 826 W. Belmont Ave., Chicago. All other statuary available through Design Toscano catalog, 800-525-0733; Design Toscano store, 17 E. Campbell St., Arlington Heights.
