Architecture Gallery
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| Crystal Palace London, England, Joseph Paxton, 1850-1851. Built as the huge exhibit hall for Great Exhibition of 1851. It was an international celebration of British Imperial power. The exhibition was conceived and organized by Prince Albert, the husband of Queen Victoria. Paxton's building made use of new materials, principally cast iron. The building's wood and glass skin was supported by a light skeleton of cast iron. The structure was a precursor of the modern skyscraper, which would use a steel skeleton to support first a masonry, and ultimately a glass skin. For more, check out the Victorian Station website. |