Auditorium Building, Chicago, Illinois, Plaster Details for Gallery c. 1887

Here we see architectural details sketched in plaster for the Auditorium Building in Chicago, designed by Adler & Sullivan. Dominant in these designs are floral motifs and geometric patterns, symbols deeply rooted in the architecture of various cultures throughout history. Look closely, and you’ll notice the recurring wheel or rosette design. This symbol, ancient as time itself, speaks to both cosmic unity and cyclical renewal. In ancient Mesopotamia, the rosette was associated with kingship and divine power, reappearing later in Roman art as an emblem of triumph and imperial glory. The echo of this symbolism resonates through the ages, and its inclusion here may represent a desire to imbue the Auditorium Building with a sense of enduring importance. Such patterns engage our emotions on a subconscious level, reflecting our collective yearning for harmony and order, and tapping into deeply ingrained archetypes. These symbols remind us that architecture is not merely functional; it is a powerful medium for conveying cultural memory, evoking emotions, and linking us to the past.