Dear PoPville – Sculptures on Top of Twins Jazz Building?

Dear PoPville,

Today, I noticed the creatures adorning the top of the Twins Jazz building for the first time. It appears they have been there for ages, but the tree hides them pretty well so I have passed by for years without seeing them. I couldn’t tell if these are dogs, tigers or what. (The paint is significantly chipped off.) I assume they were part of the building for years and perhaps had significance for a previous business in that location?

Anyone know the history behind these?

1344 U Street, NW