The famous photograph “Lunch atop a Skyscraper” captures eleven ironworkers eating lunch while sitting on a steel beam high above the streets of New York City. The image was taken on September 20, 1932, during the construction of the RCA Building (now known as 30 Rockefeller Plaza). The identities of the men in the photo have been debated for decades, but it is believed that they were all Mohawk ironworkers from the Kahnawake reserve near Montreal, Canada.
The photo has become one of the most iconic images of the 20th century and has been used to represent the courage and determination of American workers. It has also been reproduced and parodied countless times in popular culture.
The photo was taken by photographer Charles C. Ebbets, who was commissioned by the Rockefeller Center to document the construction of the building. Ebbets used a large-format camera to capture the image, and he had to climb to the 69th floor of the building to get the shot. The men in the photo were not aware that they were being photographed, and they were simply eating their lunch as they normally would. Ebbets’s photo was published in the New York Herald Tribune on October 2, 1932, and it quickly became a sensation.
1. Photographer
Charles C. Ebbets was the photographer who took the iconic photograph “Lunch atop a Skyscraper.” Ebbets was a commercial photographer who specialized in photographing the construction of skyscrapers. He was commissioned by the Rockefeller Center to document the construction of the RCA Building, and he took the photograph of the ironworkers eating lunch on a steel beam on September 20, 1932.
- Ebbets’s Role: Ebbets was responsible for capturing the image that has become one of the most iconic photographs of the 20th century. His photograph has been reproduced and parodied countless times, and it has become a symbol of the courage and determination of American workers.
- Ebbets’s Technique: Ebbets used a large-format camera to capture the image. This type of camera produces high-quality images with a wide field of view. Ebbets also used a long exposure time to capture the movement of the ironworkers. This technique creates a sense of drama and excitement in the photograph.
- Ebbets’s Legacy: Ebbets’s photograph has become one of the most iconic images of the 20th century. It is a reminder of the dangerous conditions that ironworkers faced on a daily basis, and it is a symbol of the courage and determination of American workers.
Ebbets’s photograph is a valuable historical document that provides a glimpse into the construction of one of the world’s most famous skyscrapers. It is also a powerful image that captures the spirit of the American worker.
2. Camera
A large-format camera is a type of camera that uses large sheets of film, typically 4×5 inches or larger. These cameras are known for their high quality images, wide field of view, and precise control over the image.
In the case of the photograph “Lunch atop a Skyscraper,” photographer Charles C. Ebbets used a large-format camera to capture the iconic image. The large-format camera allowed Ebbets to capture a wide field of view, which was necessary to fit all eleven ironworkers into the frame. The camera’s high quality also allowed Ebbets to capture the fine details of the men’s faces and clothing.
The use of a large-format camera was essential to the success of the photograph. Without a large-format camera, Ebbets would not have been able to capture the image in the same way. The large-format camera allowed Ebbets to create an iconic image that has become a symbol of the courage and determination of American workers.
3. Location
The photograph “Lunch atop a Skyscraper” was taken on the 69th floor of the RCA Building in New York City. The location of the photograph is significant for several reasons.
First, the height of the building provides a dramatic backdrop for the photograph. The men are sitting on a steel beam high above the city, and the view from their perch is breathtaking. This height gives the photograph a sense of danger and excitement, and it helps to convey the courage and determination of the ironworkers.
Second, the location of the photograph on the 69th floor is significant because it shows the progress that had been made in the construction of the RCA Building. The building was still under construction when the photograph was taken, and the ironworkers were working hard to complete the project. The photograph provides a snapshot of this historic moment in time, and it helps to document the construction of one of New York City’s most iconic landmarks.
Finally, the location of the photograph on the 69th floor is significant because it provides a unique perspective on the city. The men are sitting high above the hustle and bustle of the city below, and they have a bird’s-eye view of the surrounding area. This perspective gives the photograph a sense of peace and tranquility, and it helps to convey the beauty of the city.
The location of the photograph “Lunch atop a Skyscraper” on the 69th floor of the RCA Building is an important factor in the overall impact of the image. The height of the building, the progress of the construction, and the unique perspective on the city all contribute to the iconic status of the photograph.
4. Subjects
The photograph “Lunch atop a Skyscraper” features eleven Mohawk ironworkers sitting on a steel beam high above the streets of New York City. The men were part of a larger group of Mohawk ironworkers who were employed in the construction of the RCA Building (now known as 30 Rockefeller Plaza). The Mohawk ironworkers were known for their skill and bravery, and they played a vital role in the construction of many of New York City’s most iconic skyscrapers.
The presence of the Mohawk ironworkers in the photograph is significant for several reasons. First, it highlights the important role that Native Americans played in the construction of New York City. The Mohawk ironworkers were among the first Native Americans to work in the construction industry, and they helped to pave the way for other Native Americans to enter the trade.
Second, the photograph provides a glimpse into the lives of the Mohawk ironworkers. The men are shown eating lunch on a steel beam high above the city, and they appear to be relaxed and confident. This image challenges the stereotype of Native Americans as being passive and defeated. Instead, it shows that Native Americans are strong, skilled, and capable of working in any industry.
Finally, the photograph of the Mohawk ironworkers is a reminder of the importance of diversity in the workplace. The Mohawk ironworkers were able to bring their unique skills and perspectives to the construction of the RCA Building, and they helped to make the building a success. This photograph is a reminder that diversity is not just a buzzword, but a vital part of any successful organization.
5. Date
The photograph “Lunch atop a Skyscraper” was taken on September 20, 1932, during the construction of the RCA Building in New York City. The date is significant for several reasons.
First, the date provides context for the photograph. The photograph was taken during the Great Depression, a time of great economic hardship in the United States. The construction of the RCA Building was a major project that provided jobs for thousands of workers. The photograph of the ironworkers eating lunch on a steel beam high above the city has become a symbol of the courage and determination of American workers during this difficult time.
Second, the date helps to identify the ironworkers in the photograph. The ironworkers were all Mohawk ironworkers from the Kahnawake reserve near Montreal, Canada. The Mohawk ironworkers were known for their skill and bravery, and they played a vital role in the construction of many of New York City’s most iconic skyscrapers.
Third, the date provides a historical context for the photograph. The photograph was taken just a few months before the completion of the RCA Building. The building was one of the tallest buildings in the world at the time, and it was a major achievement in engineering and construction. The photograph of the ironworkers eating lunch on a steel beam high above the city captures a moment in time that is both iconic and historically significant.
6. Publication
The photograph “Lunch atop a Skyscraper” was published in the New York Herald Tribune on October 2, 1932. The publication of the photograph was a significant event for several reasons.
First, the publication of the photograph helped to make the photograph famous. The New York Herald Tribune was a major newspaper at the time, and the publication of the photograph in the newspaper helped to bring the photograph to a wide audience. The photograph quickly became one of the most iconic images of the 20th century.
Second, the publication of the photograph helped to raise awareness of the Mohawk ironworkers who are featured in the photograph. The Mohawk ironworkers were a group of Native American ironworkers who played a vital role in the construction of many of New York City’s most iconic skyscrapers. The publication of the photograph helped to bring attention to the skill and bravery of the Mohawk ironworkers.
Third, the publication of the photograph helped to document the construction of the RCA Building. The RCA Building was one of the tallest buildings in the world at the time, and the construction of the building was a major achievement in engineering and construction. The publication of the photograph helped to document this historic event.
The publication of the photograph “Lunch atop a Skyscraper” in the New York Herald Tribune was a significant event for several reasons. The publication of the photograph helped to make the photograph famous, raise awareness of the Mohawk ironworkers, and document the construction of the RCA Building.
7. Legacy
The photograph “Lunch atop a Skyscraper” has become one of the most iconic images of the 20th century. The photograph captures eleven ironworkers eating lunch while sitting on a steel beam high above the streets of New York City. The image has become a symbol of the courage and determination of American workers, and it has been reproduced and parodied countless times in popular culture.
The photograph’s iconic status is due to several factors. First, the photograph is a visually striking image. The ironworkers are sitting on a steel beam high above the city, and the view from their perch is breathtaking. The photograph also has a sense of danger and excitement, which adds to its appeal.
Second, the photograph is a powerful symbol of the American worker. The ironworkers in the photograph are working on the construction of the RCA Building, which was one of the tallest buildings in the world at the time. The photograph shows the skill and bravery of these workers, and it has become a symbol of the American spirit.
The iconic status of the photograph “Lunch atop a Skyscraper” has had a number of practical applications. The photograph has been used to promote tourism in New York City, and it has been featured in numerous books and articles about the history of the city. The photograph has also been used to raise awareness of the Mohawk ironworkers, who played a vital role in the construction of many of New York City’s most iconic skyscrapers.
In conclusion, the photograph “Lunch atop a Skyscraper” is a powerful and iconic image that has become a symbol of the American worker. The photograph’s iconic status is due to its visual appeal, its symbolic meaning, and its historical significance. The photograph has been used to promote tourism in New York City, raise awareness of the Mohawk ironworkers, and document the history of the city.
FAQs about “How was lunch atop a skyscraper taken”
Here are some frequently asked questions about the iconic photograph “Lunch atop a Skyscraper.” Each question is followed by a concise answer providing key information.
Question 1: Who took the photograph “Lunch atop a Skyscraper”?
The photograph was taken by photographer Charles C. Ebbets, who was commissioned by the Rockefeller Center to document the construction of the RCA Building in New York City.
Question 2: When was the photograph taken?
The photograph was taken on September 20, 1932, during the construction of the RCA Building.
Question 3: Where was the photograph taken?
The photograph was taken on the 69th floor of the RCA Building in New York City.
Question 4: Who are the subjects of the photograph?
The subjects of the photograph are eleven Mohawk ironworkers who were working on the construction of the RCA Building.
Question 5: Why is the photograph so famous?
The photograph is famous because it captures a moment of camaraderie and courage among the ironworkers as they eat lunch while sitting on a steel beam high above the city.
Question 6: Where can I find the photograph?
The photograph is widely reproduced and can be found in many books, magazines, and online sources.
We hope these answers have been helpful. If you have any further questions, please do not hesitate to ask.
Thank you for your interest in the iconic photograph “Lunch atop a Skyscraper.”
Transition to the next article section:
The photograph “Lunch atop a Skyscraper” has become a symbol of the American worker and the city of New York. It is a reminder of the courage and determination of those who built our nation’s cities.
Tips on understanding “How was lunch atop a skyscraper taken”
The photograph “Lunch atop a Skyscraper” is a powerful and iconic image that has become a symbol of the American worker. The photograph captures eleven ironworkers eating lunch while sitting on a steel beam high above the streets of New York City. The image has become a symbol of the courage and determination of American workers, and it has been reproduced and parodied countless times in popular culture.
If you are interested in learning more about the photograph “Lunch atop a Skyscraper,” here are a few tips:
Tip 1: Read about the history of the photograph.
The photograph was taken by photographer Charles C. Ebbets on September 20, 1932, during the construction of the RCA Building in New York City. The photograph was published in the New York Herald Tribune on October 2, 1932, and it quickly became one of the most iconic images of the 20th century.
Tip 2: Look at the photograph closely.
The photograph is a visually striking image. The ironworkers are sitting on a steel beam high above the city, and the view from their perch is breathtaking. The photograph also has a sense of danger and excitement, which adds to its appeal.
Tip 3: Think about the symbolism of the photograph.
The photograph is a powerful symbol of the American worker. The ironworkers in the photograph are working on the construction of the RCA Building, which was one of the tallest buildings in the world at the time. The photograph shows the skill and bravery of these workers, and it has become a symbol of the American spirit.
Tip 4: Use the photograph as a teaching tool.
The photograph can be used to teach a variety of topics, including history, social studies, and art. The photograph can be used to spark discussions about the history of New York City, the construction of skyscrapers, and the role of workers in American society.
Tip 5: Enjoy the photograph.
The photograph “Lunch atop a Skyscraper” is a beautiful and iconic image. Take some time to enjoy the photograph and appreciate its beauty and symbolism.
These are just a few tips on understanding the photograph “Lunch atop a Skyscraper.” By following these tips, you can learn more about the history, symbolism, and meaning of this iconic image.
Summary of key takeaways or benefits:
- The photograph “Lunch atop a Skyscraper” is a powerful and iconic image that has become a symbol of the American worker.
- The photograph can be used to teach a variety of topics, including history, social studies, and art.
- The photograph is a beautiful and iconic image that can be enjoyed by people of all ages.
Transition to the article’s conclusion:
The photograph “Lunch atop a Skyscraper” is a reminder of the courage and determination of American workers. It is also a reminder of the importance of teamwork and collaboration. The photograph is a powerful and iconic image that will continue to inspire people for generations to come.
Conclusion
The photograph “Lunch atop a Skyscraper” is a powerful and iconic image. It has become a symbol of the courage and determination of American workers. The photograph has also been used to teach a variety of topics, including history, social studies, and art.
The photograph is a reminder of the importance of teamwork and collaboration. It is also a reminder of the courage and determination of those who built our nation’s cities. The photograph is a powerful and iconic image that will continue to inspire people for generations to come.
