3-008-970 - The Print Collector/Heritage Images

The International Exhibition: decoration, in the Furniture Court, by John G. Crace - from a photograph by the London Stereoscopic Company, 1862. 'This decorative arrangement is formed into three portions (of which the central is the widest) by four pilasters, which bear the richest portion of the decoration; the upper part of the central section is occupied by an arch filled with ornamental griffins, and a shield bearing the initials of its producer, and the upper portions of the side compartments with panels, in the centre of which arc pictorial medallions. In style this decoration is French Renaissance...The ornament of the pilasters is in the richest colours, and is wrought upon a toothed gold ground. In the central columns boys are introduced, and in the side pilasters urns of flowers. The capitals are gold, and the bases imitations of rich marbles and bronze. This decoration is, unquestionably, gorgeous, yet it is not obtrusive. It is harmonious and well composed, and stands rather with the aspect of conscious worth than gaudy showiness'. From "Illustrated London News", 1862.