The Bundesrat: Portrait of a Building
[Images of the façades]
There is no question but that the Herrenhaus, the seat of those representatives of Prussia appointed by the king himself, made, as a building, a much more imposing impression than the neighbouring Prussian Chamber of Deputies. We can be sure that this was a reflection of the sharp difference in social and political status between the two chambers of the Prussian Landtag.
Today’s building is in many points very similar to the historical original. The differences are noticeable only on closer examination. Much of the ornamentation was removed during the rubble-clearing and reconstruction work of the 1950’s. The allegorical representation, however, in the tympanum of the building’s central section, of the spirit of Prussia as a goddess – symbol of the highest state authority – has survived. Around this female figure there are gathered other figures, which likewise allegorically represent the various tasks of the Prussian state administration. This façade retains, in essence, its original character. What has fallen victim to history, however, is compensated for by the decidedly modern element contributed by such details as the contemporary figures of Per Kirkeby.
Today’s building is in many points very similar to the historical original. The differences are noticeable only on closer examination. Much of the ornamentation was removed during the rubble-clearing and reconstruction work of the 1950’s. The allegorical representation, however, in the tympanum of the building’s central section, of the spirit of Prussia as a goddess – symbol of the highest state authority – has survived. Around this female figure there are gathered other figures, which likewise allegorically represent the various tasks of the Prussian state administration. This façade retains, in essence, its original character. What has fallen victim to history, however, is compensated for by the decidedly modern element contributed by such details as the contemporary figures of Per Kirkeby.