nized as the most refined example of the Ionic order. 

 This ancient building which combined the sanctuaries 

 of Erechtheus and Athena Polias, stands upon the spot 

 where, according to Greek mythology, the contest for 

 the possession of Athens between Athena and Poseidon 

 took place. After the burning of the original building 

 by the Persians in 480 B. C., the rebuilding of the 

 structure was begun, and it is supposed to have been 

 finished about 407 B. C. It is particularly famous for 

 the decorative use of caryatids. 



With this classic structure as a prototype, the ar- 

 chitects, D. H. Burnham and Co., designed a monu- 

 mental building. After the death of Mr. Burnham 

 and the dissolution of the firm, the task was continued 

 and completed by its successors, Graham, Anderson, 

 Probst and White. It is severf hundred feet long, 

 three hundred and fifty feet wide and approximately 

 ninety feet in height. The north and south facades 

 are divided into a large pedimented central pavilion 

 and two long wings, having a complete series of Ionic 

 columns running throughout their length, and termi- 

 nated by smaller pavilions at each end. This order 

 rests upon a basement story, and is crowned by an 

 attic pierced with windows. 



An attractive feature of the exterior is the terrace, 

 sixty feet wide, extending all the way around the build- 

 ing and rising six feet above the ground. This ter- 

 race has a retaining wall, steps and balustrade of 

 the same marble as the building proper. The main 

 entrance is provided with an ample flight of steps lead- 

 ing up to the central doorway, and is emphasized by the 

 decorative flagstaffs placed on the terrace at the east 

 and west. 



Page Eleven 



