Temple of Confucius, Pekin, October 1860 1860

Captured by Felice Beato in October 1860, this photograph reveals the Temple of Confucius in Peking, dominated by layered, tiled roofs. The roofs aren't merely shelter; they're symbolic echoes of ancient power structures, reminiscent of ziggurats and tiered monuments across cultures. Consider the dragon, often depicted on these roofs: a potent symbol of imperial power, wisdom, and cosmic energy. It’s a motif we see time and again, from the mythical creatures guarding ancient Greek temples to the gargoyles of Gothic cathedrals, each a guardian against chaos. The dragon's presence speaks to a deep-seated human need for protection and order, a visual embodiment of our collective subconscious. As the dragon slithers through time, it resurfaces in countless forms, each reflecting the fears and aspirations of its age. It is a testament to our enduring quest to understand our place in the cosmos.