Fair Weather Friends...

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How many times do you see decorative animals or faces on the sides of important buildings?

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These carvings; although decorative, serve a very utilitarian purpose.

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Their first service is to funnel rain away from the ornate walls they are attached to.

 Near the Sahara desert in Mali, the Dogon carve wooden rain spouts in the shape of crocodiles.

Proving; even in stark conditions, decoration is still important.

In typical fashion, the French excel at making the utilitarian appear decorative.

These beautiful dolphin downspouts are located at the Hotel de Lauzun on Ile Saint- Louis in Paris.

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Look up next time you are exploring a historical structure, you might be surprised what will be looking back at you!