The Custom House (Irish: Teach an Chustaim)

L'Estrange, Robert Augustus Henry (ca. 1900) The Custom House (Irish: Teach an Chustaim). [Image]

Abstract

Customs House was built 1791. This neoclassical building was constructed with Portland stone and designed by James Gandon. The Custom House served as a dock and warehouse for vessels plus conducted custom and excise taxation services. Now it is offices of the Department of Environment and Community plus other local government functions. Custom's House commands views of the River Liffey from its position on the north bank.

The Custom House dome deserves a close up. Above the pediment are statues of Neptune, Mercury, Industry and Plenty. Between the Corinthian columns are arched and rounded windows and above them are four clocks. Standing on the top of the green copper dome is a 16 foot sculpture of Commerce. In 1921, the dome melted during an intense fire set by the IRA that engulfed the Custom House. Ardbraccan limestone was used for the reconstruction. This gives it a brownish hue in contrast to the rest of the white façade.

Additional Information

Item Type: Image
Collection: QUT Alumni Donations
Sub-Collection Title:

Robert Augustus Henry L'Estrange - Originals - Ireland

Date: ca. 1900
Keywords: Customs House - Dublin - Ireland; River Liffey - Dublin - Ireland; James Gandon
Related URLs:
Date Deposited: 11 Apr 2019 04:49
Last Modified: 08 Jul 2022 06:48
Copyright Owner: Out of copyright
Copyright Statement: You are free to use this image without permission. Please attribute Queensland University of Technology
Location:
CountryCity or TownPlace
IrelandNorth DublinCustom House Quay
Location 53.348544, -6.253147
URI: https://digitalcollections.qut.edu.au/id/eprint/5359
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