THE BUILDING
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Style - The imposing construction at the corner of Primeiro de Março and Rosário Streets distinguishes itself in the architectural beauty, in the artistic taste and in the use of the most advanced techniques in engineering. It is one of the precursors of the eclectic style in Brazil, combining baroque and neoclassical elements with a touch of art nouveau. Such a style became noticeable in Rio de Janeiro starting from the beginning of the 20th century, and it is observed in the other great works of the Old Republic, v.g. the Municipal Theater of Rio de Janeiro, inaugurated in 1909.

Originally the exterior of the building was distinguished by the chromatic contrast between the white of the Carrara marble, of the artistic pieces and of the rotunda on one hand, and the pinkish tone of the façade on the second floor on the other. So remarkable were the granite base and the cast iron gratings and finishes painted in oils. However, the variety of colors was removed by the accumulation of dirt and residuals from pollution.