The style of architecture is in general Roman; though, as is true almost
throughout the Exposition buildings, there is an admixture of
Renaissance motives. Even on the massive Roman arches there is a trace
of Moorish lightness and color in the green lattices; and the domes of
the corner pavilions are clearly Eastern in feeling.
The East and West arches are, of course, reminiscent of the triumphal
arches of the Roman Conquerors. A comparison with pictures of the famous
Arch of Constantine and the Arch of Titus at Rome, will show how
thoroughly the architects have mastered the feeling of the classic
examples, while largely modifying the decorative features. To properly
see either of the arches in this court as a single unit, it is best to
stand at the side of the sunken garden, near one of the figures of "The
Elements," where the fountain columns do not obstruct the view.
The long colonnade, with its fine Corinthian columns and its surmounting
row of "Star-girls," can best be appreciated when one stands facing
north, with back to the Tower of Jewels-since the architecture of that
was clearly conceived by another mind and built in a different spirit.
It is from the two corner pavilions on the tower side, perhaps, that the
best general views of the court can be obtained. Unfortunately the
attractive view down the straight colonnades of the north extension of
the court is marred by a gaudy band pavilion, which is quite out of
keeping with the pervading mood of simple dignity. The little corner
pavilions are worthy of study alone, as a graceful and unusual bit of
architectural design.
The Court of the Universe was designed by McKim, Mead and White.