Building 51 | Building 51 | art deco style richman brothers exterior polychrome enameled centrally located terra cotta cornice panel – formerly apart of the “bee hive” dry goods store
8154
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art deco style richman brothers exterior polychrome enameled centrally located terra cotta cornice panel – formerly apart of the “bee hive” dry goods store

51-20354-14

Category

Chicago Buildings

About This Item

remarkable art deco style exterior terra cotta roofline building panel removed from the richman brother clothing store (formerly apart of the bee hive dry goods store constructed in 1884 with alterations by the architectural firm of adler and sullivan). traces of the original facade were wiped away when in 1929, the building underwent a remodel or “facadectomy”, consisting of glazed polychrome enameled terra cotta fashioned in typical art deco design motifs. the centrally located massive panel, which rested a few feet above the building’s roof line, was flanked by an assortment of uniquely designed owls, floral motifs and massive figural bird endcaps. altogether, the pyramidal-shaped panel consists of seven decorative components arranged together in a stunning singular assemblage with design elements that resonate with smaller panels incorporated into the art deco style terra cotta offline or cornice. the panel was likely fabricated by the midland or possibly american terra cotta company, chicago, il. urban remains removed the entire cornice after the discovery of structural instability and/or severe corrosion of steel support members were no longer able to safely carry the load they were supporting. the surface wear and discoloration or darkened surface areas were caused by prolonged exposure to air pollutants. measures 45 x 46 x 9 inches.