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| DETAILS OF THE HORTICULTURAL DOME - The engraving
offers to the reader and student a searching view of the central one
of three pavilions in Horticultural Hall. The curtains at right and
left lead to large but less impressive features of the structure.
The rich sculptural garniture of this building was the work of
Professor Lorado Taft, the accomplished art lecturer and sculptor.
Some figures are also to be seen in groups and over the Ionic
columns. The sculpture of Taft is like the genius of the man -
smooth rather than notable - rich, pleasing, but conventional,
although on the best models. The padding to protect the gondolas may
be seen at the landing, and the spacious ascent to the quay. The
great dome springs up from four small but ornate hemispheres, with by
far the broadest expanse of any of the similar constructions in this
rich field of domes. The fidelity of the sculptural decorations is
certified on every frieze, stanchion, balustrade, and on the corona
that recalls the summit of the Administration dome. This was
doubtless the largest hot-house ever erected. It was to fulfil its
office as a conservatory and yet stand creditably among the colossal
halls which were required for the display of the world's industries.
Its diameter was one hundred and eighty feet and its height one
hundred and fourteen feet. Its crystal construction, and its happy
angular posture in the great aquatic vista, were noted with relief by
the most critical, and praised by all. Rarely has there been a more
successful adjustment to necessities than was shown in this proud
home of flowers. |
