A trivial but iconic architectural element of Europe are the chimneypots that adorn the rooftops of houses and buildings.
In Paris, in particular, they are ubiquitous and occur in unusually large concentration on nearly every building.
Chimneys first appeared in Europe possibly in the 13th century.
In fact, it was thought that a room filled with smoke was an indication of it getting warmed.
In the 18th century, scarcity in wood made people shift from burning wood to burning coal.
When dirty coal soot stated filling homes, a solution to remove smoke from rooms was earnestly sought.
This lead to many new chimney designs and important developments, notably by Benjamin Franklin and Count Rumford.
Coal was also expensive, so only the rich could afford to have chimneys.
Soon people began to flaunt their wealth by having as many chimneypots as possible on their rooftops.
The Victorian era was the ‘Golden Age’ for chimney pots.
During this period, elaborate clay and metal designs became commonplace and all the rage.
