A paper on Architecture was read by Mr. Beck.
The essayist began with a description of the Egyptian Pyramids & showed the effect of their influence upon Hindu & Chinese architecture. The ancient Egyptian Temples with their massive lintels were then mentioned & a comparison drawn between them and our Stone Henge.
The various Greek orders, Doric, Ionic, & Carinthian followed characterised by grandeur & severity. Following these were the Roman corresponding styles, & along with them came the introduction of the Arch & Dome. The various Romanesque styles were developed from the Roman. E.g. Italian, Norman. & (with the aid of the oriental feeling introduced through the Etruskans) Byzantine.
The introduction of the Pointed Arch, probably born of Eastern influence brought about the various styles prevalent in Western Europe during the Middle Ages. The decline of art in the 18th century had its effect on architecture & with the modern revival the old styles were used for modern purposes but not with satisfactory results, except in the case of the Renaissance.
All the lecture was splendidly illustrated by slides typical of the various styles, which were shown by the aid of Mr. Stiles lantern.