What animals are those on the eaves of ancient buildings in China?

There are different numbers of small animals in different buildings. Take nine as an example. They are: kiss (one of the nine sons of the dragon), phoenix, lion, Tianma, hippocampus, sister-in-law, gambling on fish, sister-in-law and bullfighting. The Hall of Supreme Harmony in the Forbidden City added a line at the end. The higher the number, the higher the level. Take the Forbidden City as an example. There are ten halls of supreme harmony, which are unparalleled in the world. Gan Qing Palace is the place where the emperor lived and handled daily affairs, with nine palaces, second only to the Hall of Supreme Harmony. The Palace of Kunning was originally the queen's bedroom, with seven rooms; Concubines live in six hospitals and have five hospitals; Some halls have three or even one. The meaning of these little beasts is as follows:

1. Dear, I like to look around, so it is in front of the cornice.

2. Phoenix, a symbol of nobility and virtue. According to Historical Records Biography of Japan: "Phoenix is not a flock of birds." Phoenix is the symbol of Jirui and the name of the Queen.

Lions represent courage and majesty. "The Record of Lights on" records: "The lion roared:' I am the only one in the world'. Lions roar and all animals are frightened. "

Tianma and Haima symbolize that Wade has reached the sea and reached all directions.

Sister-in-law, recorded in ancient books, is a beast of the same kind as the lion, and is said to be one of the nine sons of the dragon. Legend has it that you can eat tigers and leopards, which means you are obedient to all animals.

6. Fish eggs are exotic animals in the ocean. Legend has it that eldest sister-in-law is the god who makes rain, puts out fire and prevents disasters.

7. Avenger, a beast in ancient legend, is similar to a lion. "Foreign Records" said that "there are wild animals in the wilderness of Northeast China, which are called arrogance". Legend has it that it can distinguish right from wrong and is a symbol of courage and justice.

8. Bullfighting is a kind of legendary dragon. According to "Introduction to Chen Yuan", "There are bullfights in Haizi in the west ... When it rains, it often meanders along and above Yudong in Jin Ao." Legend is the mascot for making clouds and rain, suppressing fire and preventing disasters.

9. Shi Hang, a portrait of a monkey face with wings.

Ancient palaces were mostly made of wood and flammable, so small animals that were said to be able to avoid fire were used on the eaves. These beautiful and practical animals sitting on the eaves add beauty to the ancient buildings, making them more magnificent and full of artistic charm. Liang Sicheng commented: "The actual part, which was originally extremely boring and clumsy, has become the crown of the beauty of the whole building."