In architecture, decorative roof finials adorn the highest point of a building, whether that is the peak of the roof or a decorative element such as a cupola. At Valley Forge Cupolas, our handcrafted copper finials keep this tradition alive, adding classic beauty to any roofline.
Decorative Roof Finials Throughout History
Before modern composite building materials, the most common roofing materials were either ceramic or slate tiles. If your building had a round roof - such as on a tower - the tiles would form a gap at the top where the tiles met, allowing water to get in. To correct this problem, finials were created. Finials were often made out of stone or metal because their weight helped hold the tiles in place. Because finials featured so prominently on rooflines, builders began making them decorative as well as functional.
Finials appear all throughout history on nearly every architectural style and building type. Some examples of finials were found on ancient Greek and Roman buildings, but it seems finials first rose to prominent use in Asian cultures around 700 A.D. as decorative elements on pagodas. These finials were primarily made out of stone, and their designs were heavily influenced by Buddhism. Most common was the lotus bud design: a closed bud represented the potential for enlightenment, while an open bud represented rebirth. Japanese builders began making finials out of metal - such as iron and copper - and also incorporated religious symbolism into their designs.
The rise of Gothic and Renaissance architecture brought with it a massive interest in finials. Gothic styles often incorporated ornamental figures - such as gargoyles and dragons - while the Victorian era brought about more regal inspired designs, such as the spike, ball and fleur de lis. Modern finials draw heavily on Victorian and gothic influences, capturing the dramatic elegance of the era.
Finials appear all throughout history on nearly every architectural style and building type. Some examples of finials were found on ancient Greek and Roman buildings, but it seems finials first rose to prominent use in Asian cultures around 700 A.D. as decorative elements on pagodas. These finials were primarily made out of stone, and their designs were heavily influenced by Buddhism. Most common was the lotus bud design: a closed bud represented the potential for enlightenment, while an open bud represented rebirth. Japanese builders began making finials out of metal - such as iron and copper - and also incorporated religious symbolism into their designs.
The rise of Gothic and Renaissance architecture brought with it a massive interest in finials. Gothic styles often incorporated ornamental figures - such as gargoyles and dragons - while the Victorian era brought about more regal inspired designs, such as the spike, ball and fleur de lis. Modern finials draw heavily on Victorian and gothic influences, capturing the dramatic elegance of the era.
The Beauty of Copper Decorative Roof Finials
Copper is a truly impressive metal, able to form and hold complex shapes while maintaining durability and strength. It is also corrosion resistant and can withstand the elements for decades on end. In fact, some buildings from the 1700s still have their original copper roofing! Copper develops a natural patina over time. This signature blue-green color is actually a protective coating that forms over the metal, helping it resist corrosion.
At Valley Forge Cupolas, our stunning copper finials come in a variety of styles, sizes and finishes. We have finials inspired by Arthurian legend, famous cities and the Smithsonian. They range in size from 13" high to a breath-taking 53" high, with each finial offering multiple size options. They can easily be mounted to one of our custom cupolas, or directly to your roof with one of our copper mounts. And they are available in a variety of finishes to complement any architectural style, from polished copper and brass to verdigris and black matte or gloss.
To learn more about our fabulous finials, or for help selecting the right one for your home, call us today at 866-400-1776.
At Valley Forge Cupolas, our stunning copper finials come in a variety of styles, sizes and finishes. We have finials inspired by Arthurian legend, famous cities and the Smithsonian. They range in size from 13" high to a breath-taking 53" high, with each finial offering multiple size options. They can easily be mounted to one of our custom cupolas, or directly to your roof with one of our copper mounts. And they are available in a variety of finishes to complement any architectural style, from polished copper and brass to verdigris and black matte or gloss.
To learn more about our fabulous finials, or for help selecting the right one for your home, call us today at 866-400-1776.
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