At the facade of an old canal-house in Amsterdam you can find this nice memorial stone of the "Four Sons of Aymon". It is a medieval tale spun around the four sons of the Duke of Aymon, the knight Renaud de Montauban, his brothers Guichard, Allard and Richardet, their magical horse Bayard, their adventures and revolt against the emperor Charlemagne. It is a rather complicated story too long to tell here, but if you are interested you can read
here.
The house is situated at a corner of the "Herengracht"and the Leidsegracht" and dates from 1672. Originally there had been a bakery of Jan Specht (Jack Woodpecker). He ordered to built that house with the four sons of Aymond in the facade. I don't know why, maybe he liked the story. In the 19th century the facade of the shop changed. It is one of the many State Monuments in the Amsterdam innercity.
What an interesting tale...and so many versions. I think that I would like to own Bayard, the horse (especially because the name of my street is Bayard!!).
BeantwoordenVerwijderenIt is easy to miss these little details when walking around Amsterdam. Thank you for bringing them to our attention.
BeantwoordenVerwijderenIs that really the name of your street Kate? Kind of weird. Wooooo.
Jack Woodpecker doesn't quite have the same panache' as Jack Sparrow. Thank you for you and your husband's input on my photo selection. It is confusing.
BeantwoordenVerwijderenDat is interessant, mooi verhaal.
BeantwoordenVerwijderenA lot of information in this article, I am surprised that the scooter stands in front of the stairs.
BeantwoordenVerwijderenGreetings,
Filip
what a nice detail! next time im in amsterdam i should look for those on houses... :)
BeantwoordenVerwijderenA lovely tale. I'm always intrigued by the small details in places, so hearing about this one is a treat
BeantwoordenVerwijderenThey look like little elves!
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