On the gates of a house in Meadow Lane in Southampton are a pair of mermaids. I took this photo this week as I kept passing the gates when visiting a small nature reserve on this Hamptons road known as Billionaire’s Lane.
I found this quote in a 1997 edition of the New York Times: “It was quite an odd week in Southampton. First the Architectural Review Board approved the addition of two gates with mermaid sculptures after the owner had agreed to a breast reduction. For the mermaids. Originally the sculptures were, well, zaftig. But to assure that the board approved the gates on Meadow Lane, the owner reduced the size of the breasts and added coverings on them… The more conservative mermaids easily won approval.” I looked up the definition of ‘zaftig’ and, according to the online Merriam-Webster dictionary, it’s a woman who’s ‘pleasantly plump’ or has a ‘well-rounded figure.’
Well hello zaftig mermaid! I know a fabulous car I spotted here in the Hamptons you may want to go for a ride in. But you may need these legs if you want to walk on land.
Stunning photograph. I love that you found some information about the mermaids too, what a great little story.
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What a beautiful picture
Great picture, love this statue. #mysundayphoto
Awesome photo, I love the story with this
Thank you for linking up
First off, I love the photo, it’s a beautiful sculpture, irrespective of body shape! But, I really love the bit of history behind it. I’ve learned a new word and the quote made me smile. Different sensibilities 🙂 I’m with Merlinda, love these little snippets of history x
Love this photo and the stpry that goes with it 🙂
Wonderful photo and nice to know the story behind it! x
The bits and pieces of info about Architecture and Arts that I learn from your blog is amazing. Dont stop and thanks for sharing #mysundayphoto
Love it-you’ve got the focus just right!
LOL – fab pic – great story! x
Wow, not a figure you’d expect to see on gates. Usually it’s balls or lions!
Lovely photo detail
It’s an eye catching photo. I will not, however, comment on the mermaid’s breasts for fear of getting a reputation for being lecherous. Great seahorse ‘though.
Brilliant click. Love the color contrast!
#mysundayphoto
I’ve never heard the word ‘zaftig’ before. I think her breasts are a perfect size!