On Via Calimurazza, Florence, as you slow down with a gelato clutched in your hand and look up, you’ll see a number of representations of an eagle clasping a bale of fabric in its claws.
They indicate the presence of the powerful Florentine guild who “ imported woollen cloth from northern France, from Flanders and Brabant, which was dyed, stretched, fulled, calendared and finished in Florence“ (World Heritage Encyclopedia™).
For those of you with an interest in history, here is a link to one of many online articles regarding this guild: Arte_di_Calimala
The guild was founded in the late 1100s, so we are left to speculate as to the age of these carvings.
This one really shows the effects of time and the weather
You’ll also see a portrayal of the Holy family.
Thank you to Jane who pointed me in the direction of this little street in Florence.
Hello World 
If it wasn’t for the bales in the third photo I might have mistaken the eagle for a phoenix. Great pictures and background notes, thanks Yvonne.
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Thank you, calm one.
If Jane hadn’t told me about these, I probably would never have noticed these details from the past.
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From Brabant.? Ah, I knew Holland played a role in Florence.
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Yes! And Flanders, probably my ancestors, Gerard! 🙂 (Perhaps we can make a pun on the word fleecing.)
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The guilds were very powerful in their day. I love seeing the ornamentation on these buildings.
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Isn’t it wonderful to think of the centuries that have passed since the guilds and their symbols were created, and now we can see the images and let our imaginations go to work!
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another thing I didn’t know; thanks 🙂
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You’re most welcome, Marina. Have you started to pack yet?
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No way! it’s way too soon for my standards
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I wonder if any of my ancestors from those places were in the wool trade? It would be interesting to find out.
Lovely photos (and great detail) as usual.
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Well, let us know what you find, Michelle.
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I will indeed let you know.
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How I love those birds and their wool sacks. Did you check out the pinnacle of San Miniato al Monte? Also an eagle, wings outspread, over a wool sack (where you might expect a cross).
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Let’s see if I can paste the photo you sent me, into this reply, Jane.
Here goes!
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These are endearing as pieces of art and a bit fearsome if one imagines, say the bale and the size of the bird clutching it. Very nice Holy Family depiction, with it’s glazing and the fact that it’s not missing Joseph. Usually they are…
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I hadn’t thought about the relative size of the birds and the bales!
Yes, it’s nice to see Joseph in the family portrait.
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nice
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Thank you! There’s a lot to grab our attention in those ancient European cities.
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