One solution to obtaining a portable graphics architecture is presented. By abstracting the functionality present in most 3-D graphics systems and augmenting it with advanced rendering features, a highly portable, efficient, and modern graphics architecture for interactive 3-D graphics applications (including modeling, animation, and scientific visualization) is obtained. Using appropriate object-oriented design procedures ensures the efficiency, maintainability, and portability of the architecture. The design and implementation of the graphics system used to achieve this high degree of portability are described. >