The Gothic Library, Inspiration

The Library is one of the many rooms that promises to catch the eye because of its many variances in appearance from the other rooms in the Dollhouse. For one, its very shape prioritizes the architectural influences on Fisher rather than what can be found inside. 

The piece is the typical rectangle of the adjoining rooms, yet Fisher has created a grand cathedral ceiling for the apex. A splendid stained glass window accentuates the central peak and spans the entirety of the back wall.  

An Accompanying Artcile by Life magazine states:

“The cavernous interior is saved from gloom by its perfect proportions and the soaring sweep of the tremendous beams and rafters, some of which are 45 feet long, the equal of the widest Gothic cathedral nave in England” (Elisofon, Life). 

The manipulation of the structure truly draws the eye immediately to the apex of the piece, with not only the beautiful stained glass window to entertain, but the sloped ceiling which houses an intricate chandelier in the center. 

However, while the structure itself is formidable, the interior touches that bring the rooms to life is not an aspect left forgotten. Dramatic lighting, ornate dressing, and pieces that speak to the public interest alive in each period seem to be continued piece that Mrs. Fisher underscored in her influence from the Scrapbook, for the gothic elements are very much at play in the room, almost in an identical manner. 

Even the furniture choices and patterns were sculpted by the revival style that influenced the period.