Ridge-end Ornament Tile

Ornamental tiles like this were placed at both ends of a roof ridge. They were believed to ward off evil spirits, and so represented a wish for safety, and they also symbolized authority and power. Their use became widespread in the construction of palaces and temples in the Han Period of China, and they were first made on the Korean Peninsula during the Three Kingdoms Period. This particular tile was found in shattered pieces around the Hwangnyongsa Temple site, but it was restored to its original shape, which is like an ancient helmet. The design of the lotus flower is different from roof-end tiles of the Unified Silla Period, so it is thought to date from the Silla Period.