Lions Bridge
Applied a texture on a photo from the archives of the Lions Bridge in St. Petersburg, Russia.
When it opened in July 1826, Lions Bridge was an innovation, because its support was hidden in the metal bodies of the four white cast-iron lions which stand in majestic pairs at each end of the bridge. The bridge spans Griboedov Canal at one of the many bends on its journey through the heart of the city.
Lions Bridge was designed by the architect G. Tretter, one of the most prominent advocates of the early construction of chain bridges in the city. The lions were sculpted by P. Sokolov, who also created the sphinxes on the Egyptian Bridge and the griffins on Bank Bridge.
The shining gold and gray chains linking the lions at each end of the bridge make a powerful artistic impression, while the bridge's elaborate gray railings are a veritable net of continuous crisscrossing rectangular bars, adorned by glimmering bronze rosettes. The elaborate railing style became particularly popular in St. Petersburg and was used as a model for new bridges.
The bridge was reconstructed in the middle of the 20th century, after years of deterioration, and regained its former splendor. Its elaborate railings, floor lamps and lanterns were all restored. (www.saint-petersburg.com/bridges/lions-bridge.asp)
Additional Bridge Photos and a Bridge Blog at www.Bridgepix.com.
Lions Bridge
Applied a texture on a photo from the archives of the Lions Bridge in St. Petersburg, Russia.
When it opened in July 1826, Lions Bridge was an innovation, because its support was hidden in the metal bodies of the four white cast-iron lions which stand in majestic pairs at each end of the bridge. The bridge spans Griboedov Canal at one of the many bends on its journey through the heart of the city.
Lions Bridge was designed by the architect G. Tretter, one of the most prominent advocates of the early construction of chain bridges in the city. The lions were sculpted by P. Sokolov, who also created the sphinxes on the Egyptian Bridge and the griffins on Bank Bridge.
The shining gold and gray chains linking the lions at each end of the bridge make a powerful artistic impression, while the bridge's elaborate gray railings are a veritable net of continuous crisscrossing rectangular bars, adorned by glimmering bronze rosettes. The elaborate railing style became particularly popular in St. Petersburg and was used as a model for new bridges.
The bridge was reconstructed in the middle of the 20th century, after years of deterioration, and regained its former splendor. Its elaborate railings, floor lamps and lanterns were all restored. (www.saint-petersburg.com/bridges/lions-bridge.asp)
Additional Bridge Photos and a Bridge Blog at www.Bridgepix.com.