The Consulate Window

The Consulate Window

THE HISTORY OF THE CONSULATE

This beautiful iconic building was designed by E H Dean Smith and built in about 1902. Designed to accommodate a series of mercantile offices, warehouse, and residence, it was occupied by German Consulate and offices of Nord-deutscher Lloyd Imperial Mail. The then German (and also Italian!) consul Carl Peter Ludwig Ratazzi was in residence until 1914 when he was interned on Rottnest island during World War I after being accused of spying on shipping movements from the 3rd floor tower.

The building has had many uses as well as offices and home – it was also later used as a nightclub called Tarantella, a bed and breakfast and then leased to Notre Dame University as lecture rooms and student accommodation. Rumour has it, that it was also a gambling den. It is on the Register of Heritage Places and features in many walking tours around the city. It is affectionately known as the Old German Consulate.

For those interested in the architecture, it is of limestone construction with some details in bluestone and freestone and a steep gabled roof which has been topped with an elaborately decorated square turret. The building is entered through an arched opening supported by two short columns with bowl capitals. With its strong vertical form, deep recesses, rich masonry textures and medieval motifs, the building is meant to be a fine idiosyncratic example of Federation Romanesque style, and certainly unique amongst the architecture in Fremantle.

information from www.theconsulate.com.au

The Consulate Window belongs to the following groups:

Reflections in Building Windows 2 per day Available for sale as

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