One of the most distinctive properties in Preuilly is the former home of Paule Richon, a 20th century artist who I have written about before. The reason the house is so memorable is because of the unique decorations on the shutters at the front.
La Maison des Marches (the building's 'official' name translates as the House of the Steps).
According to my friend Yvonne these were made by Jacques Walter, Paule's nephew and business partner. One of them has been restored recently and put back after a long absence (presumably at the metalwork conservator's workshop).
I would say by the colour of the newly restored metal that the birds and stars are beaten brass, not copper. Ironically, the monkey lurking up on the drainpipe, looks like it is copper, not brass. Frankly, I'm amazed that none of this metalwork has been stolen over the years.
Birds and stars adorn the shutters.
I don't know who owns the house these days, but little by little it is being restored and it is nice to see that the decorative metal is being cherished.
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