Lunch Atop a Skyscraper by Charles Clyde Ebbets, 1932
Joseph Nicéphore Niépce exposed the first photograph in 1826. Now, thanks to smartphone technology, more photographs are made each day than were taken in the history of the world before the start of the 21st century.
Historian Clay Jenkinson has chosen 10 magnificent images to explore how great photographs epitomize a moment or an era, capture an extraordinary event, provide a window into the human condition, or make us ache with appreciation and wonder. One perhaps obvious choice is Lunch Atop a Skyscraper (1932), taken atop Rockefeller Center in 1932 by Charles Ebbets, Thomas Kelley, and William Leftwhich. Recently it has been alleged that the photograph was staged, but it is in fact authentic, shot 69 floors above the New York streets.
Jenkinson tells the backstory of each photograph, covering who took it, when, under what circumstances, what has happened in the aftermath, and what influence the image has had on the world. He also reveals some of his runners-up and honorable mentions in assembling his top 10. Audience members are encouraged to nominate their own favorites to add to the discussion.
World Art History Certificate elective: Earn 1/2 credit*
General Information
*Enrolled participants in the World Art History Certificate Program receive 1/2 elective credit. Not yet enrolled? Learn about the program, its benefits, and how to register here.
