1893 Print Chicago Worlds Fair Eastern Machinery Hall - ORIGINAL HISTORIC FAR1
This is an original 1894 halftone print showing the Eastern portion of Machinery Hall, an architectural rival of the Palace of Fine Arts and the Administration Building. This particular building has steps that lead directly down to the water's edge of the South Canal. As visible, the structure is comprised of six noble columns, which support the roof of the grand portico. The entablature is decorated with a group of statue figurines. In the center of the throne sits Columbia, holding a sword of justice in one hand and a palm in the other, denoting peace. At her feet is a figure that represents wealth, pouring out an abundant cornucopia of fruit and flower. On the left of Columbia is Honor, ready to bestow a laurel wreath on deserving citizens. Between the two towers are five figures, the center being Science as well as others, which are meant to portray Wind, Earth, Fire and Air. (Please note that, typical of halftone prints, there is printing on the reverse.)
Period Paper has obtained a wonderful set of halftone images of the 1893 Chicago World's Fair, also known as the World Columbian Exposition. This collection of the fair's many architectural, artistic, mechanical, agricultural, industrial, archeological, ethnological, historical, and scenic attractions was published in 1894.
The World Columbian Exposition was held from May to October 1893 in Chicago in honor of the 400th anniversary of Columbus' discovery of the new world. In competition with many other cities, Chicago was finally designated the official site and the Exposition was built on 630 acres in and around Jackson Park. It was a spectacular display of progress and prosperity, and included among its many wonders electrical exhibits, exhibits from other countries, and a popular amusement area on Midway Plaisance with carnival rides, among them the first Ferris Wheel. Most of the fair's architecture was based on classical design which gave the area around the Court of Honor the name "The White City."
CONDITION
This 117+ year old Item is rated Near Mint / Very Fine. Light aging throughout. No creases. No natural defects. Some light surface rub. No tears. No water damage. Please note that there is print on the reverse. We will also include the text related to this image for reference.
- Product Type: Original Halftone Print; Black / White
- Grade: Near Mint / Very Fine
- Dimensions: Approximately 8.25 x 10.25 inches; 21 x 26 cm
- Authentication: Serial-Numbered Certificate of Authenticity w/ Full Provenance
- Protection: Packaged in a custom archival sleeve with an acid-free black board (great for display, gift-giving, and preservation)
Keywords specific to this image: Architecture, Mechanic Arts
FAR1C94