Designs Underfoot: The Art of Manhole Covers in New York City

by Diana Stuart

Overlooked for nearly two centuries, New York's manhole covers are at last brought to the forefront in this book, which traces the evolution of their intricate designs and styles. Through intriguing history bites, and nearly 400 photographs, Designs Underfoot demonstrates how these mainstays of city life, once considered merely utilitarian street hardware, are actually sophisticated works of cast-iron art. A fascinating element of New York's streetscape, these decorative covers are an inspiring reflection of the creativity and attention of the foundries themselves and, sadly, a dwindling relic of New York's architectural history. Historians, design professionals, antiques collectors, and sightseers will find this an inspiring glimpse into a form of artwork nearly lost to urban renewal, and encouragement for the reintroduction of such innovative designs in civic planning.

128 pages, Hardcover

First published February 1, 2003

About the author

Dee Stuart and Jane Toombs wrote in collaboration as Diana Stuart.