Anatomy of a Photo: 1ST AVENUE

Today, another attempt at examining a photograph in detail. Exhibit A is the above, a view up 1st Avenue from 42nd Street, made in 1927.

Zooming in on the Little Renting Cottage as seen from 1st Avenue. 

Looking at 1st Avenue bordered by 42nd and 43rd Streets. Pedestrian traffic is light, and the deep shadows here suggest the photo was made early in the morning.

Across the way, the large sign at 42nd Street is temporarily blank.

In the middle of the photo are two more signs: MOTOR NEW YORK TRUCKS and CHARLES & CO. GROCERS.

Across the street, a view of the Queensboro Bridge, albeit obscured by various water tanks and smokestacks. At far left, the rising Panhellenic Tower hotel, later renamed the Beekman Tower hotel.

Our last close-up is of a hole in the street, this one at the northeast corner of 42nd and 1st. Watch your step.