original 1929 american art deco style salvaged chicago richman brothers polychromed terra cotta figural owl

historically important single art deco style exterior terra cotta roofline building figural owl removed from the richman brother clothing store (formerly the bee hive dry goods store constructed in 1884 with alterations by the architectural firm of adler and sullivan). traces of the original facade were wiped away when in 1929, the building underwent a remodel or "facadectomy," consisting of glazed polychrome enameled terra cotta fashioned in typical art deco design motifs. the polchromed terra cotta owl was likely fabricated by the midland or possibly american terra cotta company, chicago, il. urban remains removed the entire cornice after the discovery of structural instability and/or severe corrosion of steel support members were no longer able to safely carry the load they were supporting. the surface wear and discoloration or darkened surface areas were caused by prolonged exposure to air pollutants.