In this photo one can see another angle of the wall separating the outer and inner courtyards of a Korean palace. The grand structure in the middle with the curved roofs is a gate. The four pillars are similar to the pillars in the previous photo. Unfortunately, because of air pollution and bad photography the the upper roof is not too clear; however, note the little bumps on the roof. These are actually little critters, similar to gargoyles in Western architecture. If I remember correctly, these little creatures are called Haetae, and are mythological Oriental creatures, some of them recognisable as lions, monkeys, rats, frogs, and the like. And like gargoyles they are probably there as guardians, intended to ward off evil spirits. The curved roofs are unique to this architectural style and is supposed to give a balanced and natural feel, almost like the slopes of a mountain.
Friday, 21 August 2009
Gate
In this photo one can see another angle of the wall separating the outer and inner courtyards of a Korean palace. The grand structure in the middle with the curved roofs is a gate. The four pillars are similar to the pillars in the previous photo. Unfortunately, because of air pollution and bad photography the the upper roof is not too clear; however, note the little bumps on the roof. These are actually little critters, similar to gargoyles in Western architecture. If I remember correctly, these little creatures are called Haetae, and are mythological Oriental creatures, some of them recognisable as lions, monkeys, rats, frogs, and the like. And like gargoyles they are probably there as guardians, intended to ward off evil spirits. The curved roofs are unique to this architectural style and is supposed to give a balanced and natural feel, almost like the slopes of a mountain.
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