PICTURESQUE WORLD’S FAIR. AN ELABORATE COLLECTION OF COLORED VIEWS

Page 27

THE WOMAN’S BUILDING.—In no Exposition previous to that of 1893 was there a great building designed by women and devoted especially to a display of women’s work. That the Columbian Exposition should have such a structure was a natural outcome of the movement which made a Board of Lady Managers with a voice in the control of certain branches of exhibition. The Woman’s Building occupied an exceptionally fine position just west of the west lagoon, and with all advantage afforded for the display of its architectural features. Its dimensions were three hundred and eighty-eight feet by one hundred and ninety-nine feet, its cost being $138,000. Competition for the design was restricted to women, Miss Sophia Hayden, of Boston, being the successful aspirant. The edifice was in the style of the Italian Renaissance, and, while perhaps lacking power and great originality in its conception, was at least chaste in effect and pleasing. The appearance of a towering skylight was not good when the view was at all remote, but It answered its purpose well of brightening the interior. The grouping consisted of a center pavilion flanked by corner pavilions, all connected in the first story by open arcades, a promenade being thus formed extending the whole length of the building. The pediment of the main triple-arched arched entrance was well proportioned and was enriched with an elaborate bas-relief. The interior effect of the rotunda with its surrounding arcades was light and pleasant, and the exhibits, including a great display of women’s work were inspected under the best conditions.

Please comment or email us if you enjoy the images or would like a larger version.