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The Sky's the Limit!

On this day in 1924, Walter P. Chrysler founded the Chrysler Corporation.

One of the greatest legacies of the Chrysler Corporation is its commission of a New York City skyscraper. Architect William van Alen designed the art deco landmark, which was completed in 1930.

Howard Cook's 1930 engraving was executed around the time of the building's completion—and at the height of his printmaking achievement. Urban optimism soars in this artwork, despite the onset of the Great Depression.

Pictured: Howard Cook, 1901–1980, Chrysler Building (Chrysler Building in Construction), 1930, wood engraving on paper, 10 1/8 x 6 3/4 in., Smithsonian American Art Museum, Gift of Barbara Latham.