Explore the architectural grandeur of the Library of Congress with this antique stereoview card, published and distributed by the renowned Keystone View Company. This classic stereograph, identified as view W29573 T, captures the "Decorative Splendor of the Entrance Hall" in Washington, D. C., offering a fascinating 3D glimpse into one of America's most iconic buildings. The detailed image showcases the magnificent interior, featuring lofty columns, carved Corinthian capitals, and vaulted ceilings, all rendered in the characteristic depth of a stereoview.The reverse side of this curved mount stereoview provides an extensive description of the scene, titled "W29573 SPLENDOR OF ENTRANCE HALL, CONGRESSIONAL LIBRARY, WASHINGTON, D. C." It reads: "This is one of the noblest entrance halls ever designed, a veritable vision in polished stone. It is lined throughout with a fine Italian marble, while all around rise lofty columns, with carved capitals of Corinthian design, supporting arches adorned with exquisite carvings. The vaulted ceiling rises seventy-two feet to the skylights. Italian marbles from Verona and Sienna form the floor. The decorations without are confined to sculpture, but within there is a great variety of sculptures, paintings, colored marbles, mosaics and gildings. As many as fifty American artists contributed to the mural decorations and the whole structure is the product of American genius. This is a great, free national library, open to all for the fullest possible use consistent with safety. The shelves and drawers themselves are made accessible to those requiring such service. The privilege of taking books away belongs only to Congressmen but by courtesy is granted also to members of their families. An underground tube leads from here to the Capitol, through which books are sent by pneumatic power in a few moments. The library includes valuable early publications and each year its possessions are increased by copies of every book, map, picture, pamphlet or periodical copyrighted in this country. It was established in 1800 and was burned with the Capitol by the British Army in 1814. Thomas Jefferson's books were purchased to form the nucleus of a new library which increased until 1851, when all but 20,000 volumes were again destroyed by fire. The present fireproof building was opened in 1897." This stereoview card is a wonderful collectible for enthusiasts of vintage photography, American history, and architectural studies, providing both visual and historical context.Verified Specifications:
Item Type: Stereoview Card
Publisher/Manufacturer: Keystone View Company
Copyright: H. C. White Co.
Subject Matter: Architecture, Library of Congress, Washington D.C., Interior View, Grand Hall
View Title & Number: W29573 T - Decorative Splendor of the Entrance Hall, Congressional Library, Washington, D. C.
Format/Mount Type: Curved Mount
Materials: Cardboard mount
City/State/Province/Country: New York, N. Y., Portland, Oregon, London, England (Publisher locations); Washington, D. C. (Subject location)
Logos/Graphics: Keystone View Company logo, LIBRARY OF CONGRESS (on image), T4 (on mount)
Identifiers: Copyrighted, H. C. White Co.; W29573 T; Text on reverse mentions building opened in 1897.
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