Triborough Bridge Clearing c. 1940s

Donald Vogel created this etching entitled ‘Triborough Bridge Clearing’ using ink on paper. The imposing structure, a testament to human ingenuity, bears a striking resemblance to the Tower of Babel, a motif rich in symbolism. Throughout history, the tower has represented the hubris of mankind and our ambition to reach the divine. Here, the bridge, a modern-day tower, rises against a somber sky. The bridge evokes feelings of awe and anxiety, reflecting our complex relationship with progress. We can see echoes of Piranesi's architectural fantasies in the play of light and shadow. This image reminds us of the cyclical nature of history, where symbols persist, evolve, and acquire new significance. It is a potent reminder of the human desire for transcendence, which has taken on new forms in the industrial age.