Bryne Westwood
Professor Bomboy
Modern Culture and the Arts
February 8, 2015
Coatesville
and the Classical Greek Influence
It
is not always easy to distinguish the difference between modern and classical
Greek architecture. The National Bank of Chester Valley, located in
Coatesville, Pennsylvania, is a perfect choice when looking into Greek
architecture influences. At first glance, I would never think buildings that we
see today date back to hundreds of years ago. Greek ideas or input has helped
these unique buildings stand out from the rest, as well as, prove that designs
can pass through different time periods. Without question, The National Bank of
Chester Valley is strongly influenced by the Greek Classical period. Evidence
of this is obvious through the carefully structured architecture and history of
the building itself.
The
National Bank of Chester Valley appears to be closest to the Ionic order. The
columns are the first piece of evidence and first thing the eyes move towards.
The Ionic order shows a more delicate and simple side of design (Fiero 124).
While there are indeed similarities between each type of Greek order: the
Doric, Ionic, and Corinthian, they all differ in proportion and details (Fiero
123). Ionic architecture includes the likes of arches, theaters, and the design
of columns on different structures (Wesley 6). The top of the columns known as
the capital resembles a scroll (Wesley 10). The scroll design is seen within
the echinus and volutes combination. A simple similarity in frieze design
between the Ionic and Corinthian order can easily be determined. Both types of
architecture share a continuous pattern within the appearance of the frieze
(Wesley 14). Another feature of the bank is the tall shafts that give the
columns its height. When looking at the base of the columns, we can see the
close relationship between the Ionic and Corinthian orders. The base looks like
layers or rings on top of one another. If we take notice of the roof, it
follows the "rules" of the Ionic order. It is flat with the peaked
top similar to the Ionic Temple. It is easy to see the sophistication this
building was trying to obtain.
People
are typically attracted to different sights and tend to be interested in what
the scene has to offer. The National Bank of Chester Valley, for example, shows
off its sophisticated side by welcoming customers into elegance. The Ionic
order proves to be a good choice for the bank because its sleek and decorative
nature make it seem as beautiful as it is "rich." It is important for
a bank to look like it can provide security and give the people only the best
type of service needed. Thomas Jefferson's influence for this building design
can easily shine through. His attractive design within this bank is similar to
the design of The Virginia State Capitol. In fact, the Capitol was the first
public building of the Monumental Classical style in 1788 (Commonwealth of
Virginia). Jefferson used his knowledge of the Greek and Roman architecture to
create such an amazing landmark (Commonwealth of Virginia). With the writing on
the wall, it is obvious to say that Jefferson was influenced by old
architecture and then passed his ideals onto the creators of The National Bank
of Chester Valley.
After
discovering this new information, I realized how much detail I had missed over
the years. With some research done and typical curiosity, I learned that my
perception of the bank has indeed changed. Originally, I walked or drove by
this bank just thinking it was another bank. Assuming it was just built to look
like it was older, I never considered the idea that it was in fact, an older
building. I can now look at The National Bank of Chester Valley as a form of
Greek architecture. It easily relates to the Ionic order and can pass for
having some similar Corinthian order features. Identifying the differences
between each order, there are distinguished features that stick out. Those same
features were the ones that drew me to the Ionic style. Sleek and elegant
columns with a beautifully detailed frieze area. Some might say that this style
was passed down from the Parthenon in ancient Greece. The Parthenon holds more
than one Classical order. The Ionic portion is noted as forming the sculpted
frieze, as well as, the four columns used to support the roof of the
opisthodomos (Silverman). The Doric order shares titles with the Ionic within
the Parthenon. What an amazing piece of history!
At
the end of the day, the most amazing piece of history is really anything we can
discover through research, architecture, and stories passed down throughout the
years. The National Bank of Chester Valley clearly resembles features of the
Ionic order. The proof is in the tall, slim columns, scroll shaped votives,
continuous detailed frieze, and attention to detail overall. I believe that the
Ionic order was chosen for the sophisticated and elegant image it projects.
People are attracted to it because it makes the building seem secure and
matches the mood given off from a bank. A bank is a place for people to keep
their valuable assets, while feeling like there is a sense of safety and
security. If a building looks attractive to the eye, it will gain popularity as
well. The National Bank of Chester Valley only dates back to 1857, but the
building design and structure were obviously influenced by Thomas Jefferson.
Keep in mind, Jefferson was actually influenced by Greek architecture! What a
neat concept. The National Bank of Chester Valley still stands as a popular
landmark in Coatesville, Pennsylvania and will always prove to us how important
Greek architecture really is at the end of the day.
Works
Cited
Fiero, Gloria K. The Humanistic
Tradition. 6th ed. Vol. 1. New York: McGraw-Hill, 2011. Print.
Silverman, David. "The
Parthenon." Parthenon. Web. 6 Feb. 2015.
<http://academic.reed.edu/humanities/110Tech/Parthenon.html>.
"Virginiacapitol.gov -- About
the Capitol." Virginiacapitol.gov -- About the Capitol. Web. 7 Feb.
2015. <http://www.virginiacapitol.gov/index.php?p=index>.
Wesley, Ann. "Greek Architecture
Influences America’s Architecture."Welcome to Ann’s Web. Np, nd Web 23 (2012).
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