Potter Mausoleum
Misc.
The Potter mausoleum, a classic example of Richardsonian Romanesque architecture, has the look of a medieval fortress. It is rare for one individual to be so influential in the popularization of an architectural style that it is named after him, but so it was with Henry Hobson Richardson (1838-1886).
The dominant architectural styles in the nineteenth century were revival styles (Classical Revival, Gothic Revival, Egyptian Revival, Renaissance Revival etc.). Richardson added his own twist to the Romanesque Revival style by advocating the use of heavily rusticated stone. Romanesque architecture usually used smooth stone. Richardson also used deep window reveals and cavernous door openings. The general theme of his buildings was one of heaviness. This style adapted well to large authoritative structures such as churches, university buildings, railroad stations, courthouses and, in this case, a mausoleum.
Text and photo © Douglas Keister Visit Doug’s Author Page
[address cemetery=”Graceland Cemetery” street=”4001 North Clark Street” city=”Chicago” state=”Illinois” zip=”60613″]
