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| THE FOUR COURTS, DUBLIN. -These historic buildings-all conjoined-from one of the most attractive of the numberless architectural landmarks of Dublin, and are situated on the North bank of the Liffey, between Richmond and Whitworth bridges. The Irish architect Cooley furnished the plans of the Four Courts, which were completed about 1796, to take the place of the antiquated halls of justice, bearing the same designation, which, through time and neglect, had fallen into ruin. Mr. Gandon, who would seem to have been the great modifier of Irish architecture, somewhat changed the plans of Mr. Cooley after the latter's death, but, substantially, the structure was finished as originally designed. There are extensive courtyards, separated from the street by ornamental screens, at each side of the central mass, which is surmounted by an imposing cupola. The Irish Harp, with statues of Justice, Security and Law, is placed above the arch of the eastern entrance, while above the western is the Royal Shield and other emblems. Six superb pillars support a majestic portico of the Corinthian order at the main entrance. The statue of Moses, the great law giver, crowns the apex of the pediment, and has the figures of Justice and Mercy-the latter a quality not developed from over-exertion in Irish courts-on each side. The dome of the Four Courts, with its twenty-four Corinthian columns, is a marvel of beauty. |
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