Lunch atop a Skyscraper

Lunch atop a Skyscraper is a famous photograph taken by Charles C. Ebbets on September 20, 1932. The image captures eleven construction workers taking their lunch break while sitting on a steel beam, without any visible safety measures, high above New York City. This iconic photograph was taken during the construction of the RCA Building (now known as the 30 Rockefeller Plaza) at Rockefeller Center. The photograph is often cited as a classic example of early 20th-century construction and has become a symbol of the bravery and determination of workers during the American industrial age.

Background

The early 1930s in the United States was a period marked by the Great Depression, a time when jobs were scarce and the economy was in a downturn. The construction of the Rockefeller Center was a significant project that provided employment to thousands of workers. The photograph "Lunch atop a Skyscraper" not only showcases the physical heights these workers reached but also symbolizes the economic heights that the project aimed to achieve during a period of financial despair.

Photograph Details

The photograph was taken on the 69th floor of the RCA Building, approximately 840 feet (256 meters) above street level. The identity of the photographer was long a subject of debate, but it is now widely attributed to Charles C. Ebbets. The men in the photograph are believed to be real construction workers, not models, highlighting the everyday risks taken by workers of that era. The image is celebrated for its composition and the casual demeanor of the men in such a dangerous setting.

Cultural Significance

"Lunch atop a Skyscraper" has become an iconic representation of the American spirit during the early 20th century, embodying themes of progress, bravery, and camaraderie. It is a reminder of the human effort behind the skyscrapers that define the New York City skyline. The photograph has been reproduced in various forms and continues to be a popular print and poster, symbolizing the construction boom of the 1920s and 1930s and the development of urban America.

Legacy

The image has inspired numerous homages and parodies, reflecting its enduring appeal in popular culture. It is featured in exhibitions and collections related to photography, history, and industrialization. The photograph is not only a significant piece of art but also an important historical document that captures a moment of American history.

See Also

• Rockefeller Center
• History of New York City
• Photography in the United States
• Industrialization

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