The Monograph Series Volume 4-7; V. 15-16; Records of Early American Architecture (Paperback)

This historic book may have numerous typos and missing text. Purchasers can download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. Not indexed. Not illustrated. 1918 Excerpt: ...topped with several courses of brick, forming a low base which is finished with a moulded brick watertable. The interior division walls of the cellar are of brick. The main house and the wings are roofed with ridges running the long way of the house. The main roof is pierced with three small gabled dormers, placed close to the eaves and designed with arched windows and small pilasters. Except for a small porch which has been added to the kitchen wing, the house remains today practially unchanged. Such are the main characteristics. It is when one examines the carefully wrought, classic detail that one sees what a masterpiece it is, this serene old home of the Early Republic. Conventional as the exterior is, one could never tire of its simple, frank proportions. It is trite to say that every line, detail and moulding is right and could not be changed without damage to the effect, but it is true in this case. The broad low proportions, the perfect scale of the two rows of windows, the delicately detailed cornice and above all the beautiful doorway, with its jewel-like sparkle of decoration--these can hardly be over praised. The architectural elements of the Imlay house, are fairly typical of the period and of the region northeast of Philadelphia. Every bit of detail, down to the tiniest curve and moulding has been studied almost to the ultimate possibility of craftsmanship. As a result of this exceptional design and workmanship, the Imlay House is like one of those finest masterpieces of EarlyAmerican furniture--say one of Duncan Phyffe--which has a final touchof grace, of perfection beyond other similarpieces. The shutters are thicker and have more character in the panel mouldings than is usually the case. On the main doorway, the delicate play of light and sh..