Item Info

Series: Lithograph
Media Type: Lithographs
Notes: "Spanisches Staats Geb., Pavillon de l'Espagne."
Notes:

Lithograph Caption:

Spain prepared for the use of her commissioners and servants an octagonal building somewhat in the lantern style, with but small decoration, and not of a character to attract particular attention. The hasty visitor to the grounds might pass it by as of no more claim than many which are near; but it needs nothing more than that a little attention shall be paid to the structure to discover that it is a very neat architectural example. The Moorish doorway may be called plain, but it is in strict subordination to the rules which govern in that fantastic style, lacking only elaboration of ornament which shows in the Alhambra and other ancient remains which certify to the Moorish domination in Spain. The windows are Mauresque. The appropriate decorations at the eaves of the first story are of zinc, from designs by Mueller, who has prepared also the coat-of-arms which surmounts the doorway. The upper lantern is lighted from all sides, and the finish is in harmony with the general style. The flag of Spain floats over all. This structure is occupied by a detachment of Spanish engineer soldiers, consisting of a lieutenant, sergeant, corporal and twenty privates. The interior arrangements are those of a barrack, and the pavilion is under strict military discipline. After the original structure was finished, an arcade was constructed near the principal building, in the Moorish style; it is small, but much more showy in the details than the principal headquarters. This construction is used for a dining-room, offices and wash-rooms. At a still later period a large structure was erected adjoining, for the use of the commission. This is a parallelogram, high, airy and well lighted. It will not compare in richness of style with the octagon or arcade; but it is a sensible, substantial affair, and is in a position wherein a pleasant view of the grounds and coolness – the situation being most inviting to the breeze – are objects always to be attained. The commissioners have their official residence in this additional building, which is fitted up with every convenience for the discharge of their business duties in a manner satisfactory to Spaniards as well as of Americans who wait upon them. The octagon is 50 feet in diameter, and the larger structure 80 x 100 feet. The Spanish buildings are upon the Avenue of the Republic, adjoining on the west the buildings of West Virginia.

Notes: 1 lithograph; 12 x 22 cm.
Notes: Removed from: Centennial portfolio / Thompson Westcott. Philadelphia : T. Hunter, 1876.
Notes: The Building, situated in a grassy field, with trees in the background and people strolling in the foreground.
Creator Name: Westcott, Thompson. Centennial portfolio.
Thomas Hunter, lithographer.