Focus on Disney World – Where in the World? #27

This was Challenge #26:

And here’s the answer:

Copyright © 2007 Barrie Brewer, Nikon D50, 18-200VR, 0.4s shutter, f4.5

This sculpture is in the lobby area of the Impressions de France film in Epcot’s World Showcase. I’ve always thought that this was a gargoyle but I just learned that this replica of a stone carving from atop the Notre Dame in Paris is actually a grotesque. Grotesques were believed to ward off evil spirits.

A gargoyle has its roots in plumbing. A gargoyle is a grotesque that directs water away from a building via a spout in its mouth. Since this carving does not have a water spout, it is technically considered a grotesque rather than a gargoyle.

Language does have a way of evolving though. Nowadays it’s common and acceptable to use the term gargoyle to describe both grotesques and gargoyles. Either way, he’s still kind of grotesque!

Congratulations to Kathy Love , this week’s winner. Jacquelyn Law, Mike Kaczanowski, Brian Gallant, Monica Alderman, Garland Cox, Sharon Lee, Roye Ann Morris and Allison DiBiase also all gave the correct answer and will be entered in the February winner’s drawing.
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Challenge #27: Where in the world is this?

Do you know? Do you have a guess? Send in your answer, before the end of the day on Thursday, by clicking HERE!
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Everyone who sends in a correct answer to a Where in the World Challenge this month will be entered in a drawing at the end of the month for a copy of Hidden Mickeys Walt Disney World by Steve Barrett and some special AllEars® goodies!