Item 3C.28 - India Pavilion

1 slide photograph.

Exterior view photograph. India Pavilion exterior (lot C-464). The two storey India pavilion featured an intentionally simple exterior design so that it would contrast with its elaborately decorated interior. Its triangular entrance tower was inspired by the shape of a sun dial. Stepped buttresses surrounding the building were transparent in parts so that the interior displays could be partially visible from the exterior. Indian materials such as marble, sandstone, teak and rosewood adorned the building's interior and exterior. The ground floor exhibited India's rich history. Exhibits showcased intricate Indian handiwork over 5000 years as well as displays about religion, philosophy and language. A circular exhibition area displayed slides portraying India's landscape, people and culture on nine screens. The second floor showcased modern day India. It featured everything from displays on mining, manufacturing and atomic research to bicycles and typewriters. Visitors found a special treat in the 3/4 scale replica of Ghandi's hut. Triangular tower in front of rectangular volume. Reinforced concrete and structural steel with painted concrete block, sandstone and aluminum curtain wall. (S: 194' x 114' (main block), 114' x 305' (overall size) --- A: 40,000 sq. ft. --- H: 50' (main block), 72' (tower))