Abstract
The Chrysler Building is a magnificent structure in New York City. The building presents a powerful image to every viewer. The building also depicts the best example of Art Deco architecture. This paper presents a powerful analysis of the Chrysler Building. The paper also explains why the building is significant to its age.
Description of the Work
The correct name of this artwork is the “Chrysler Building”. This magnificent building “was constructed from 1929 to 1930” (Stravitz, 2010, p. 7). The height of this building is 1046 feet. It has a total of 77 floors. The building was the tallest structure in the world for eleven months. It is also one of the tallest buildings in New York City.
William Van Alen “designed this magnificent artwork” (Colb, 2009, p. 24). According to Stravitz (2010, p. 18), “the Chrysler Building presents the best of Art Deco architecture”. According to many architects, Chrysler Building one of the finest artworks in the world.
Comparison
The Chrysler Building is a masterpiece showcasing the famous Art Deco architecture. The features of this building make it unique and spectacular. Many architects were working hard to produce the best skyscrapers during the period. This fact explains why “the Empire State Building surpassed this skyscraper within a few months” (Smith, 2002, p. 46). This kind of competition also explains “why the Chrysler Building is similar to other skyscrapers constructed during the time” (Stravitz, 2010, p. 92).
This kind of trend is also common today. Many countries are currently constructing tall buildings across the globe. Some of the tallest buildings today include the Burj Khalifa, Petronas Towers, and Taipei Tower. However, this structure presents a unique Art Deco. This building presents “unique metal claddings and ornamentations” (Stravitz, 2010, p. 73).
These “aspects explain why it was declared a historic landmark in 1976” (Colb, 2009, p. 103). This building has inspired similar structures in every part of the world. A good example is the One Liberty Place. This skyscraper is in Philadelphia.
Contrasting With Other Works
The Chrysler Building is a masterpiece that differs significantly from all the other buildings constructed during the period. The building presented a wide range of qualities to different viewers. For instance, the Art Deco architecture gave the building a powerful image. The “building was the first to have a terraced crown” (Smith, 2002, p. 57).
The architects also presented revolutionary designs and patterns. The façade of the building gave it a unique shape. It is agreeable that the Chrysler Building revolutionized the world of architecture (Stravitz, 2010). This masterpiece has remained relevant for many decades. This fact explains why many people still admire this piece of art.
Evaluation
The Chrysler Building is very significant to its age. The engineers and architects behind the building wanted to produce the best structure. William Van Alen wanted to change the skyline of New York City. He also wanted “to produce a powerful artwork using new architectural aspects and decorations” (Stravitz, 2010, p. 87). This goal made it easier for the architect to produce the best skyscraper in the United States. The building presented unique features to every American citizen.
The presence of “a public viewing gallery made this structure unique to the people” (Smith, 2002, p. 73). The features of the building made it popular during the period. These unique attributes redefined the future of architecture. This architectural design would empower many designers in the future. Many architects have been examining and replicating the aspects of this building. The Chrysler Building is therefore a masterpiece that will always influence more architects.
Reference List
Colb, H. (2009). The History of Stainless Steel. New York, NY: ASM International.
Smith, K. (2002). Source Book of American Architecture: 500 Notable Buildings from the 10th Century to the Present. New York, NY: Princeton Architectural Press.
Stravitz, D. (2010). The Chrysler Building: Creating a New York Icon Day by Day. New York, NY: Princeton Architectural Press.