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Ancient Greek Architecture?
Is there a special name for the lions heads or statues on the corner of greek temples? I think they serve as drains?
Public Comments
- On the long side, the sima (the upturned edge of the roof) was equipped with water spouts, often in the shape of lions' heads. Statues on the corners of Greek temples, like the Erechtheion's Caryatids (on the Acropolis in Athens) are supporting columns, supporting the weight of the porch roof
- It`s not a simple question, and although I read and I have many books of art, I cannot make a summary for you. Look in Wikipedia, Enciclopedia Britannica, Encarta, Artcyclopedia, but you can look for buildings, sculpture, painting, ceramics and vases. Statues which seem to support the roof are called Caryatides if it is a woman, and Atlantis, if it is a man. The lions heads lack importance. maurituchi@yahoo.com
