A Set of Three Early Gargoyle Limestone Figures

A wonderful set of three gargoyle limestone figures, possibly Continental and early 18thc, possibly much earlier. Originally from a building or church as possible corner pieces now in a property in Wimbledon, London. Have usual wear for pieces of this age and one gargoyle has ears as can be seen from photographs. The gargoyles could weigh between estimated 50/60kg and are a two man job. Two pictures shows the gargoyles with torches/finials sat on top of same period which are being sold separately. The two stone blocks that two gargoyles on are not attached and not for sale. In architecture, and specifically Gothic architecture, a gargoyle (/ˈɡɑːrɡɔɪl/) is a carved or formed grotesque with a spout designed to convey water from a roof and away from the side of a building, thereby preventing it from running down masonry walls and eroding the mortar between. Architects often used multiple gargoyles on a building to divide the flow of rainwater off the roof to minimise potential damage from rainstorms. A trough is cut in the back of the gargoyle and rainwater typically exits through the open mouth. Gargoyles are usually elongated fantastical animals because their length determines how far water is directed from the wall. When Gothic flying buttresses were used, aqueducts were sometimes cut into the buttress to divert water over the aisle walls.