| Home -> Paul Elder - > The Sculpture and Mural Decorations of the Exposition - The Genius of Mechanics | |||
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The Genius of Mechanics
Column Friezes, Machinery Hall |
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| All of the sculpture about the Palace of Machinery partakes appropriately of the size and strength of that huge building which houses the world's progress in mechanical arts. The sculpture, like the building, is Roman rather than Greek in type and modern American in vigor and expression, as are the chief contents of the Palace. The sculptor, Haig Patigian of San Francisco, has expressed this combination with power and virility. The frieze here illustrated appears at the base of massive columns, interestingly made of simulated Sienna marble, the warm tones truly reproduced. The frieze is extremely energetic, although well restrained, and supports the great column as a basic frieze should do, especially when its subject is so appropriate to the purpose. Two winged Genii, one holding a pulley, one upholding the column upon his hands, alternate with two Disciples, for whom their extended wings create a background. One of these is complemented by hammer and anvil, the other by furnace and tongs. Both share the column's weight on powerful arms. The imaginary figures show potential strength in repose, the human figures potent strength in action. The frieze in low relief is colorful and decorative. | |||
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