Sunday, February 3, 2008

Windows - German Style

While strolling the medieval walled city of Rothenburg ob der Tauber in southern Germany one can't help but notice the personality of the windows on the individual buildings. Although it was the end of January, there was a definite attempt to create a welcoming atmosphere to this touristy area. The dried pine cones and other plant material in this lacy window were color coordinated and artistically designed, not just for one window, but if I remember, there were 4 matching windows. The second window, with its shutters open and little lace panels held an assortment of dried evergreens. The history of all these buildings is impressive - if only the walls could speak. The final window is that of a bakery which features the traditional 'snowball' pastry that utilizes all the little scraps of dough which are then shaped into a ball by a large metal press and deep fried and then dusted with confectioner's sugar, or for the more elaborate snowballs, they are frosted with chocolate glaze and nuts, why there's any combination of ways to elevate the stature of the snowball. In addition to the snowballs, the bread masks hanging in the window caught my eye, assorted faces all designed in bread bring a smile to passersby, enticing you in for a purchase.


No comments: