India - Expo Paris 1889
On the other hand, what is really curious and full of local colour is the Indian exhibition, which is located on the Avenue de Suffren side, i.e. just opposite the English section, and which absolutely deserves the name of Indian Palace.
This pavilion consists of two rectangular galleries, each leading to a central dome. The outer sides corresponding to these galleries and the dome are flanked by verandas. In short, it is a caravanserai. The whole thing is painted reddish-brown with strings of white carvings that look like strips of lace sewn onto a dress. The whole thing is in a composite style: the salient details of Hindu architecture have been borrowed throughout. The galleries are lit by twin windows and each bay has a dome. The central dome, which is higher than those of the galleries, dates from the Muslim-Hindu transition period. It is decagonal and supported by columns whose carvings are based on models from Kensington in London. This pavilion is built after the type of the Outab tower which stands in Delhi. In the centre of the pavilion, M. Joubert has placed a marble fountain. The basin is supported by sea lions belonging to an unknown but very ancient period of Indian art. This fountain is also built after a type that can be seen in the Kensington Museum. In the central dome and the verandas, tea will be served exclusively.
The twenty exhibitors are truly Indian.
The principal exhibitor is the Maharajah of Mysore, and the organisers of the Exhibition, Messrs. Robinson and Sir George Berwod, have been connected with India for many years.
In this palace, therefore, there will be an exact representation of Indian life, and this palace is one of the most interesting corners of the Exhibition.
© Guide Bleu du Figaro et du Petit Journal 1889