Interior of the station hall
Isaac Gosschalk
About this artwork.
The central hall of Groningen Central Station breathes an atmosphere of more than a century ago: the brickwork in wickerwork of red, yellow and black stones, a high wrought iron lantern and the texts above the passageways. The colourful floral motifs and architectural elements on the ceiling are made of papier-mâché. At the time, this technique was not unusual because of its low cost and light weight. However, its use on such a large scale is unique.
High up in the walls of the hall, on the track side and at the front of the station, there are large stained-glass windows with decorative patterns in five colours. On the other two sides, architect Isaac Gosschalk had tile tableaux installed. The tableaux were designed by F. H. Bach, at the time a drawing teacher at the Minerva Academy. Of the three images on the west side of the hall, the one in the middle represents the Groningen city virgin. She is throned above winged wheels – the symbol of the railways – and various symbols of the city. The Telegraph Service and the Post Office are depicted on both sides. On the other side, two male figures represent Labour and Time. Labour has a shovel in his hand and is surrounded by industrious species of animals such as spiders, ants and bees. Time, with his wings, can be recognised by the hourglass and astrological signs.
Part of route.
Location.
Stationsplein 3
Facts & Figures.
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Design
Isaac Gosschalk -
Year of creation
1896 -
Art type
Relief, Art and architecture, Art in / on a building -
Material
Terracotta, Papier-mâché -
Dimensions
h 14,00 x b 20,00 x d 20,00 m