Empire State Building c. 1931

"Empire State Building" is a striking black and white photograph taken by Lewis Hine, a prominent American photographer known for his social documentary work. This 1931 photo depicts the newly constructed Empire State Building rising high above the surrounding buildings in New York City. The image's composition uses the perspective of a street-level viewer to emphasize the monumental scale of the skyscraper, a symbol of American ambition and architectural innovation during the early 20th century. Hine's keen eye for detail and masterful use of light and shadow create a sense of awe and wonder, making this iconic image a quintessential representation of New York City's skyline.