Great Hall of the University of Sydney

The Great Hall, of the University of Sydney, Australia, is one of the principal structures of the University; today a public interior embracing such purposes as formal ceremonies, conferences, recitals and dinners. The Hall, located in the Main Quadrangle on the Camperdown campus, is not only an iconic symbol of the University's stately history, but also an excellent architectural example of the Victorian Gothic revival.

History

's original design.

The Great Hall was completed in 1859, and represents one of Blacket's finest accomplishments. On July 18, 1859, degrees were first conferred upon graduates by the University in a formal ceremony in the Hall. During 1881–1882, a Forster & Andrews pipe organ was installed, later to be replaced in 1971-72 by the present organ which was manufactured by German builder Rudolf von Beckerath of Hamburg.

Architecture

The Great Hall is recognised as one of the finest examples of the Victorian Gothic revival style of architecture in Australia, in a design that reflects, and harmoniously complements, its counterpart, the University Quadrangle.

Westminster model

1834, which destroyed much of the remaining palace.

The University Design

Like its English counterpart, a wooden, hammerbeam roof is adorned by ten carved angels. The arched design of the roof is supported by six collar beams, and is architecturally reminiscent of such British interiors as those of Stirling Castle, Hampton Court and Etham Castle, all equally typical of gothic constructions. The marble floor, elevated upon the western side of the hall, mirrors the dais found in Westminster Hall, upon which the throne of King Richard II stood.

The armorial bearings upon the southern side of the Hall, as well as the frame of the Oriel window, have been carved of Caen stone. The walls are otherwise constructed of New South Wales sandstone, with a floor of marble. The great beams of the roof are of cedar wood.

External links

* [http://www.usyd.edu.au/organ/ The Great Hall Organ]