ENTRANCE TO THE ELECTRICITY BUILDING.—The south front of the Electricity Building was by no means deficient in the part it sustained toward making a wall of splendid architecture about the Grand Plaza, and the special feature of this front was, of course, the main entrance to the structure. Here the architects had made their chief study and secured their greatest results. The facades were all relieved by entrances, but the one to the south had special distinction in its treatment. A great triumphal arch, fifty-eight feet wide and ninety-two feet high, made the frame of a semi-circular niche, or hemicycle, as it is called, extending into the building and covered by a half dome. The half dome was divided into panels on which were various graceful devices on a background of greenish blue. Above, exteriorly, were different figures representing the functions of electricity as applied to the industrial arts, and the general effect produced was not only dignified but, at the same time, thoroughly emblematical. The object which attracted most attention at the entrance was the heroic statue of Benjamin Franklin, the inspiration being Franklin’s discovery that lightning might be brought from the clouds. He stood, his kite beside him, head thrown back, and the whole attitude that of a man triumphing in a great end achieved. The statue comported well with its surroundings.

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