Editing Radcliffe Camera (section)

== Architecture ==
[[Image:Radcliffe2ndlevel.jpg|thumb|Inside Upper Camera]]

The building is the earliest example in England of a circular library. It is built in three main stages externally and two stories internally, the upper one containing a gallery. The ground stage is heavily [[Rustication (architecture)|rusticated]] and has a series of eight pedimented projections alternating with [[Niche (architecture)|niches]]. The central stage is divided into bays by coupled [[Corinthian order|Corinthian columns]] supporting the continuous entablature. The pedimented windows stand above [[mezzanine]] openings, reflecting the interior arrangement. The top stage is a lanterned dome on an octagonal drum, with a [[balustrade]]d parapet with vases.

The construction used local stone from Headington and Burford, which was then [[ashlar]] faced. The dome and cupola are covered with lead. Inside, the original walls and dome were distempered but this was later removed, revealing the decorations to be carved in stone. Only the decorative work of the dome is plaster.<ref name=bh/>

Originally, the basement was an open arched arcade with a vaulted stone ceiling, with Radcliffe's [[coat of arms]] in the centre. The arcade arches were fitted with iron grilles: three of them were gates which were closed at night, and which gave access to the library by a grand staircase. In 1863, when the building had become a reading-room of the Bodleian, the arches were glazed, a new entrance was created on the north side in place of a circular window, with stone steps leading up to the entrance.<ref name=bh/>
[[File:Radcliffe Camera, Oxford; panoramic view with All Soul's Col Wellcome V0014214.jpg|thumb|Radcliffe Camera (line engraving)]]
The area around the Library was originally partly paved, partly cobbled, and partly gravelled. In 1751 stone posts and obelisks surmounted by lamps were placed around the perimeter. All but the three at the entrance to [[Brasenose Lane]] were removed around 1827 when the lawns were laid and iron railings installed.<ref name=bh/>