Zakopane in the Sierras
Russian Roof Details
As far back as the 14th century massive roofs of houses in the Northern Dvina River Region of NW Russia were topped with an entire larch log, its roots hanging over the gable of the house. From the root ball Russian carpenters used an axe to carve sculptures, often in the shape of a hen or a horse. These were called "okhlupen" and had the function of protecting inhabitants of the house from illnesses, thieves, fires and evil forces. There was a saying in the north of Russia, "Kuritsa na krishe, v dome tishe." "With a hen on the roof, it's quiet at home."
Check out the 8-page feature article in the August issue of Mountain Living magazine:
http://www.mountainliving.com/Homes/A-Handcrafted-and-Historic-Sierra-Nevada-Cabin/
Carved horse head