ARTIFICIAL CHARACTER. THE magnificent building, which, by its situation and magnitude, must form the leading feature of the place, ought, therefore, to extend its influence over the scenery: at present, its character is contrasted with all the surrounding objects of art, and its great dimensions withdraw the eye from all the surrounding objects of nature: hence it becomes separated from, or, rather, contrasted to, the scenery; and being thus, in a manner, isolated and detached, we are apt to suppose it too large for its situation. If the same character be extended throughout the gardens, and the whole scene be enriched by buildings of the same style, this large dome will cease to be unconnected; it will, in a manner, blend with them, although it will always form the leading feature of the scenery.* There might be some reason for objecting to a multiplicity of buildings, if they were all merely introduced as ornaments, like a public garden crowded with seats; but if each object has a separate use, and each contributes to the comfort as well as the magnificence of the scene, it is hardly possible to make it too rich. *[Another objection to this building, as a separate object, arises from its uses. We are in the habit of supposing that the house should be a more lofty object than its stables, or offices, and are apt to annex dignity to loftiness. For this reason, at Chatsworth, at Hardwick, and some other places, the principal apartments were at the top of the house; yet we do not object, in St. Paul's, or St. Peter's at Rome, that the choir, or most dignified part of the building, is not placed immediately under the dome.]
