New Futures for Birmingham`s Historic Buildings

The Friday Photo -Green Man

Posted April 12th, 2013 by Birmingham Conservation Trust with 2 Comments

green man

 

The Friday Photo- Green Man by Clare Overton Lewis

 

How many of you have looked at our fine architecture: our churches, cathedrals, pubs, shops, hotels and have spotted a carved face, covered in leaves and other foliage staring back at you? You could be looking at a Green Man. Green Men  were seen in Roman architecture but also have symbolic meanings in Paganism and Christianity, however it is believed that most of the time they are just used for decoration with no underlying significance. Birmingham city centre is riddled with these wonderful architectural ornaments. The photograph is of a fantastic example that can be found on Newhall Street. So, the next time you’re wandering around the city centre, see how many you can spot!

2 Responses to “The Friday Photo -Green Man”

  1. Suzanne Carter April 19, 2013

    I love the fact that he has green on his face through age. I really like the one at the Custard Factory – well I’m presuming it is still there?

    Reply

    • Clare Overton Lewis April 19, 2013

      Yes, it’s still there and one of my favourites. It’s also our most modern green man.

      Reply

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