Grand Staircase - Art and Architecture
This beautiful staircase, also the work of William Van Strattum, provides illusion of continuing grandeur to the second floor, giving the appearance that the second floor and attic are as detailed as the first floor.
It provided a beautiful setting for grand entrances by the ladies of the house at parties or special events like weddings. The low railing is actually a “trailing rail”. It's height permitted ladies to trail their gloved hands elegantly along the top as they descended the stairs.