Maastrichtse gevelsteen - 17 In het eenhoorn 45

The unicorn is a peculiar animal, at least as far as one can speak of an animal, for such a beast does not exist and did not exist, even though it was depicted as a horse with a horn.Now people used to have more trouble with imaginary animals such as mermaids, phoenixes, manticores, etc., which is understandable for a time when knowledge, belief and superstition were closely related.The belief in this animal was so long-lived, because it was said that no hunter could catch it. Occasionally a "real" horn appeared - presumably from a narwhal - which represented a great value and was processed by goldsmiths because of its rarity. The horn was also attributed a magical power: by sweating it would warn against poisonPerhaps that is why the unicorn next to the mortar was popular as a sign among pharmacists and chemists. But it also had its place within ecclesiastical symbolism as a symbol of Christ and the overcoming of sin.There have been several unicorn houses in Maastricht. In any case, it is known that at Maastrichter Brugstraat 7 a unicorn could be seen in a landscape with the inscription IN THE UNICORN 1762.IN THE UNICORN 1745 was originally located at Markt 8, although several people will still consider this part of the street Grote Gracht. There was also difficulty giving the right address in the 'gichts' (register of purchases and sales).A virgin is simply irresistible to a unicorn, and before long the animal will lay its head in her lap. The unicorn will be so defenceless, that you will be able to catch it with the help of that virgin.

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