THE ORIGINS OF ROOSTERS, APPLES AND STARS

Posted by Gina O'Brien on 25th Nov 2012

THE ORIGINS OF ROOSTERS, APPLES AND STARS

Country décor provides a historically rich visual backdrop within your home, with its cascading warmth of earthy colors strengthened by vintage and primitive motifs and textures. Within the vast collection of country motifs there are few as prominent as the rooster, the star and the apple. These three distinct symbols are full of story and significance, making them a natural choice for country home decorators.

The rooster is often recognized as being nothing more than a character that announces the morning sun with his distinctive crowing. While this description is true, there is a much deeper meaning to the symbol that can be traced back to ancient Rome. During this time, Gaul, (later known as France) was named based on the Latin word for rooster. It is possible that Gaul was given this name because roosters are fierce defenders of their homeland as well as a symbol of virility, making them a fitting mascot for a country defending itself against the rule of Julius Caesar. So how does an image of such historical meaning fit within the decor of your home? Country living reflects the values of family, independence, and the preservation of beliefs, making the rooster a perfect symbol for these principles.

What could be more American than the smell and taste of an apple pie fresh out of the oven? The apple intrigue comes from old-fashioned values and American legends such as Johnny Appleseed. While apple décor is generally found in the kitchen, it is not limited to one part of the home. Some have taken their adoration for the apple into their dining rooms with country curtains and tablecloths with apples in the design.

Our fascination with the stars has far surpassed our understanding of them. While our knowledge has grown over time, our love for these heavenly points of light has influenced artists and philosophers for ages. The common star motif found in most country homes is the barn star. With its five points, this shape is widely used in Americana décor, which is derived from the American flag symbolism and coloring. Some have conjectured that the stars-and-stripes motif of our flag was based on the George Washington family coat of arms. German-Americans adorned their barns with these stars as a mark of the builder, but later stars were used for their visual appeal. While rich in history and purpose, the star has found its way into many homes and upon many canvases, including country quilts and curtains.

With an assortment of items adorned with roosters, apples and stars, Country Village Shoppe is the best place to look for country décor that imparts inviting vintage appeal to your country home.