For centuries insolent imps, hideous or comic, have stuck their tongues out at worshippers from the walls of the cathedral. But what is the real significance of this gesture?

Some scholars think that it must be an ancient symbol for invitation to licentious behaviour — just what one might expect from a creature of the devil!

Others associate it with Kali, the Hindu goddess of death and destruction. She always has her tongue out.

Maybe he’s just insulting you.

Linguex is a relief sculpture
approx. 8" high and 9" wide
(21cm x 23cm).