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The Palais Garnier or Paris Opera House

Opera House of Paris line art illustration (click image to enlarge)

Artist's notes:

The drawing of the Paris Opera House was completed in the summer of 1996, partially in front of the building itself and partially back in the studio. Looking at this drawing now, I am somewhat taken aback that I was able to have the patience to draw the incredibly detailed facade of this remarkable building. I don't know if I would possess the same patience now. The only part of the drawing I believe doesn't work is the doorways, which I wish I had handled somewhat differently. 

Information about the Paris Opera House:

The Paris Opera House, also called the Palais Garnier, is a large opera designed by architect Charles Garnier. The building is done in the architectural style of Beaux-Arts. The construction began in 1862 and was completed in 1875. The building was part of the great reconstruction period of the Second Empire under Emperor Napoleon III. There were many problems with the construction, not the least of which was the the site of the building was on swampy ground that needed to be constantly pumped out as the concrete foundation was laid. The construction was also hindered by the Franco-Prussian war. But despite the setbacks and political upheaval, the building was completed and dedicated in 1875. The style of the building was extremely influential, and many notable buildings - especially other opera houses - were heavily influenced by Garnier's remarkable vision. The legend of the storied building was furthered by the novel "The Phantom of the Opera" by Gaston Leroux.