Book Illustration, The Metropolis of Tomorrow, The Chanin Building

Hugh Ferriss trained as an architect but specialized in architectural renderings, particularly perspective drawings of other architects' work. In 1912, Ferriss moved to New York City and began drawing skyscrapers that promoted the new modern aesthetic. By the 1920s, he had developed a unique style of sketching that was reminiscent of photography. When New York City established the setback standard for high rise structures, Ferriss was commissioned to draw a series of perspectives to demonstrate the architectural advantages. These drawings were later incorporated into The Metropolis of Tomorrow, which featured both theoretical studies of the setback standard and specific skyscrapers, including the Chanin Building. The Chanin Building at 122 East 42nd Street, designed by Sloan & Robertson in the art deco style for Irwin S. Chanin in 1929, has a series of setbacks (as seen in the Ferriss drawing) rising above the 22nd floor to the 56th floor.