Architect - Bernard R. Maybeck of San Francisco.
Architecture - Old Roman in the main, with Italian Renaissance features.
In the background is the fire-proof art gallery of 113 rooms.
In front is a pergola, extending along an arc 1100 feet from end to end.
Ochre columns are closely grouped with pale green ones.
The Roman Corinthian capitals are burnt orange with an Indian-red
ground.
The columns sweep forward on either side the rotunda, in the dome of
which are Robt. Reid's eight murals.
1st Panel - Birth of European Art.
The central point of the picture is the altar on which is seen the
sacred fire. The guardian of this altar holds the torch. She has three
attendants, one holding a flask of oil, one pouring oil upon the altar
and ready to apply the torch should the flame grow dim, a third one
carefully watching the flame. An earthly messenger, holding back his
rearing steeds, leans from his chariot to receive the torch of
inspiration. A winged attendant checks for an instant the flight of
these steeds. In the left corner a woman holds a crystal ball in which
the future of art is revealed.
2nd Panel - The Birth of Oriental Art.
The forces of earth try to wrest inspiration from the powers of the air.
This is shown in an ancient Ming legend.
We see a Chinese warrior, mounted on a writhing dragon, combating an
eagle. Japan is seen under the great umbrella. Two more Oriental figures
are seen.
3rd Panel - Ideals in Art.
Greek ideal in the classic nude is seen.
Religion - Madonna and Child.
Heroism - Joan of Arc.
Youth and Material Beauty - Young woman on the left.
Absolute nature without ideal or inspiration - peacock.
Mystic figure in background holds cruse of oil to pour onto the sacred
flame.
A winged figure floats above with laurels for the victorious living.
A shadowy figure in foreground holds the palm for the dead.