In the ancient times, weathervanes were first used in church domes and steeples in Europe, by virtue of a papal decree. These were usually made into an image of a rooster or a cock and were supposed to serve as a reminder of the words from the Scriptures (Luke 22: 34-35). The weathervane was an instrument that, first and foremost, became very important because it helped predict the direction to which the wind was headed. And for that purpose, it has helped alert the community, especially farmers and fishermen, in case of an impending calamity. Long before barometers, thermometers, radars and even satellites came; the public had greatly relied on this very crude instrument.
For many centuries that followed, images of these weathervanes in church steeples were seen even in small community chapels. But then later on, even public buildings began adapting the use of weathervanes. Call it enterprising, but these things have become more of a decorative ornament than a scientific instrument, to which many homesteads put up on the roof of their house or their garage. They can be seen in farmhouse structures or highly urbanized buildings. By the time 20th century rolled over, more commercialized weathervanes have started popping up in figures of other animals or some form of a patriotic figure like flags, eagles and Lady Liberty.
Some of the weathervanes being sold today are made of different kinds of materials, depending on the condition to where this will be placed. The most common material used and preferred though is copper, as it is very durable and can withstand all kinds of weather. A weathervane made from copper also isn’t hard to maintain. The instrument remains beautifully perched even with little cleaning. In fact, the more the copper ages, the better the weathervane looks.
Because there are plenty of designs and styles to choose from, you can pick a weathervane that reflects your own personal style or motif. Some go with a favorite sports team, others pick one that’s related to their hobby. And yet, even with all these evolution, the rooster on the rooftop is still the most popular choice.
And so these days, weathervanes no longer serve their original use. They have, however, evolved into beautiful, priceless collectibles that sometimes command a really high price value. Did you know that in 2007, an antique weathervane actually fetched for $24,000.00? How about that 62 inches weathervane that was sold for almost five million in a New York auction? Useful, decorative instruments that they are, these weathervanes are also now seen as good investment items. Maybe now is a good time to pick one for your own. Who knows how much it will fetch several years down the line!
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