l'œil de boeuf - the oh-so-French window

The French term 'œil de boeuf' literally means 'bulls eye', but in architecture refers to the round or oval window most often found peeking out of a slate grey roof.

My favourite œil de boeuf are zinc, sometimes simple and sometimes gloriously ornate, with motifs such as this oak wreath.

 There are country versions of the window too, more modest, less imposing but just as French and equally charming.

I love this shot with the curtains behind, makes you wonder what sweet room is hidden here.

In Paris if you walk around with your nose in the air as much as I do, you'll spot œil de boeuf carved into the stone facades.

 

or in symmetrical rows

Tomorrow I'll show you some great ways to use œil de boeuf indoors, and tell you where you can buy the real thing!