The vaulted ceiling above the Grand Stair

For years, this beautiful vaulted ceiling was hidden under a layer of dirt and discoloured varnish.

Renovation in the 1990s revealed the original cerulean blue dome, spangled with gold stars.

(Unfortunately, visitors aren't allowed access to the higher levels of the building, so this shot looking up from the first floor landing is as as close as I could get!)



[November 2003]

photos ©urban75 2003