The Rooster has been a staple of home decorating for a few decades now. But, it’s not just any old rooster that started this trend. It’s the French Gaulois Rooster. He is one of the best looking roosters around with the iridescent black plumage on the tail feathers and the beautiful mix of browns and ambers on the breast with a bright red cock’s comb. Yes, he’s definitely suitable for a decorating scheme.
He’s not all good looks. This fabulous bird has a history, too. The rooster is found in Greek mythology and Gallic lore. He also has religious significance. In the Bible, Jesus said that Paul would deny him three times before the cock crowed. The rooster crowing at the beginning of each new day is a symbol of light over darkness and good triumphing over evil. Pretty deep thoughts to go with that rooster cookie jar on the counter.
Since the rooster was seen as a symbol for Christians waiting watchfully for the resurrection and judgement, during the Renaissance, the rooster became the symbol of France as a Catholic state. They became a popular motif on top of weathervanes watching over the home and farm. Also known as a Chantecliar, it was featured on one side of the 20 Franc gold pieces from 1899 to 1914. With that French pedigree, it’s no wonder it makes a beautiful motif in decorating.
Our French Roosters by Rebecca Baer features the Chanteclair and a few of his friends. The collection is perfect for a quilt for the family room or a kitchen make-over with new curtains, table runners and linens.