Guangzhou Saddle-Shaped Gable: A Monument of Lingnan Architectural Art

Hidden within the Ao Mountain Ancient Temple Complex in Sanshan Village, Shawan Town, Panyu District, Guangzhou, lies a rare architectural treasure—the saddle-shaped gable. Resembling a horse saddle, these gables feature straight yet rhythmic lines, distinct from the common "wok ear walls" of Lingnan architecture, showcasing unique craftsmanship and aesthetic sensibilities. Upon entering the ancient temple complex, the first sights are the square pavilion and carved wooden beams of the Shennong Temple. However, the most striking feature is the saddle-shaped fireproof gable on its roof. These gables not only serve a fireproofing function but also incorporate a "short front, long back; high front, low back" structural design that combines wind resistance with aesthetic value. The gray plaster decorations atop the gable, paired with the inscribed phrase "Spring Night Banquet in the Peach and Plum Garden," evoke a poetic dialogue between Li Bai's verses and the ingenuity of ancient craftsmen. The history of saddle-shaped gables dates back to the Ming and Qing dynasties, with their design possibly inspired by the saddle-shaped walls of the Fuzhou region. However, Lingnan artisans adapted and refined the design, infusing it with local cultural elements. Today, these gables are preserved in only a few ancient buildings, serving as vital physical evidence for studying the history of Lingnan architecture. Visiting the Ao Mountain Ancient Temple Complex is akin to flipping through a three-dimensional architectural history book. For over 300 years, the saddle-shaped gables have quietly guarded this land, witnessing the inheritance of craftsmanship and the continuation of cultural heritage, adding a unique touch of ancient charm to Guangzhou, the millennia-old commercial capital.