Parisian Skies
by Pablo Lopez
Title
Parisian Skies
Artist
Pablo Lopez
Medium
Photograph - Digital Image
Description
The Grand Palais in Paris as seen from Pont Alexandre III.
The Grand Palais des Champs-Élysées is a large historic site, exhibition hall and museum complex located at the Champs-Élysées. Construction of the Grand Palais began in 1897 following the demolition of the Palais de l'Industrie as part of the preparation works for the Universal Exposition of 1900, which also included the creation of the adjacent Petit Palais and Pont Alexandre III.
The structure was built in the style of Beaux-Arts architecture as taught by the École des Beaux-Arts of Paris. The building reflects the movement's taste for ornate decoration through its stone facades, the formality of its floor planning and the use of techniques that were innovative at the time, such as its glass vault, its structure made of iron and light steel framing, and its use of reinforced concrete.
Adjacent to the Palais is Pont Alexandre III, which was inaugurated on the occasion of the 1900 Universal Exhibition and classed as a historic monument. The Pont Alexandre III is one of the most emblematic bridges in Paris because of its architecture and location. At its four extremities are huge 17 metre-high pylons crowned with gilt bronze sculptures of winged horses representing the illustrious Arts, Sciences, Commerce and Industry. Pont Alexandre III connects the Invalides on the Left Bank to the Grand Palais and Petit Palais on the Right Bank. From the bridge you can enjoy a sweeping view of these buildings as well as the Eiffel Tower and over the Seine, which makes it a popular place for a stroll at any time of day or night.
Uploaded
November 12th, 2015
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