As diners scurry to Smith & Wollensky, a legendary steakhouse in Midtown Manhattan, they may stop to admire something remarkable in front of neighboring 777 Third Avenue. Most office buildings in the area have entrances lacking imagination or inspiration. But 777 Third Avenue has one of Midtown’s best-kept secrets. Under the building’s front overhang is an early work by one of the world’s most prominent sculptors: Beverly Pepper.
This gift to Midtown Manhattan is due to the foresight of the builders of 777 Third. When the tower was under construction in 1963, the William Kaufman Organization (WKO) was searching for the right talent to create a masterpiece that would complement – or counterpoint – the building’s sleek International style.
The portfolios of several promising artists were reviewed, but it was the wooden objects by Beverly Pepper that caught the attention of the WKO. Pepper was commissioned to create a circular, free-flowing, stainless steel object d’art that would contrast – or counterpoint – the building’s rigid glass and steel surfaces.
Aptly named “Contrappunto” (counterpoint in Italian), this 18-foot-tall, 15-foot-wide abstract sculpture consists of numerous swirling ribbons of stainless steel. At first glance this giant whirlwind may appear stationary, however “Contrappunto” consists of two separate parts. An upper portion suspends from the building’s front overhang and gently rotates by motor while the bottom half is stationary, securely mounted on a massive block of black granite.
This large base is essential to the concept behind “Contrappunto.” The designers wanted visitors to closely interact with the sculpture so a platform was created to provide a sizeable seating area. Many of 777 Third’s tenants and neighbors enjoy chats, snacks, and sandwiches on this base. Spotlights constantly shine on the sculpture, ensuring the churn of ribbons gleam day and night.
Since this first steel sculpture, Beverly Pepper has continued to work in a variety of mediums and now holds a prominent position in modern American sculpture. She is represented by Marlborough Gallery, one of the world’s leading contemporary art dealers. Founded in London in 1946, Marlborough Gallery has locations in London; Madrid; Barcelona; Monaco, Monte Carlo; Santiago, Chile; as well as two galleries in New York.
Dale M. Lanzone, President of International Public Art Marlborough Gallery in New York, says, “Beverly Pepper has produced consistently for over 50 years, amassing an astonishing oeuvre. She demonstrates through her work that sculpture is best measured by physical experience — not words. Not only does she have a lifetime of gallery and museum exhibitions, but she also works extensively with public sites creating both land art and sculpture installations across the United States, Europe, and Asia. At 87 years old, Beverly Pepper continues to produce influential monumental sculptures all over the world.”
However, there’s no need to travel around the world to experience one of Pepper’s great works of art. Grab some provisions from Smith & Wollensky or any nearby restaurant and enjoy a fine repast along side Midtown’s best-kept secret.
About 777 Third Avenue
777 Third Avenue is owned by the William Kaufman Organization (WKO) and the Travelers Companies, Inc. The building is managed by Sage Realty Corporation, a wholly owned entity of the WKO.
