Not as far away as the moon which I was shooting - http://365project.org/taffy/the-also-ran-ph/2013-11-15 - this is the top of the skyscraper at 311 South Wacker Drive in Chicago. Urban myths abound about its form -- a copy of the engagement ring of the architect's fiance (some versions have her passing away prior to the building's completion), a model of their wedding cake, etc. But no one can prove the story actually happened. The building is really spectacular, though, sort of the 'little sister' of the Sears Tower which is across the street. Context for this photo is in my extra extras album: http://365project.org/taffy/special-photos/2013-11-15
Here's info from Wikipedia, if curious: The top of the building is a 105-foot (32 m)-tall translucent cylinder, surrounded by four other smaller cylinders, which was inspired by the massing of the Tribune Tower. This makes it among the most visible Chicago skyscrapers at night, as its crown is brightly illuminated. The five cylinders on top are lit at night by 1,852 fluorescent tubes, and a lantern at the top changes colors for various holidays and special events.
For as long as I've lived in Chicago I've never heard the top of 311 S. Wacker described as an engagement ring. When I worked in the Sears Tower people used to call it the salt shaker building (derisively).
@kchuk Elyse, that's so interesting! It is funny, I think comparing the two structures, the Sears so strong, masculine looking, stark lines and angles. Then the 311 building, all puff and fluff. They make such a great contrast! There's a story on yelp that the engagement ring stuff was started by a tour guide who got bored with the same stories and started making things up.
@genesis_one@pamknowler
Thanks for viewing, commenting, and faving, Corrie and Pam! I really appreciate it. I've taken this shot a number of times but never could get it to come out without blowing out the light. I finally did it through the magic of HDR, so I'm especially glad you liked it!
i've been to chicago many times but am unfamiliar with this building. will look for it next time I'm there. if that is a copy of an engagement ring, that is one BIG diamond. spectacular shot.
@vickisfotos Thanks for the kind comment Vicki! I think the reason it's less well know is that it is not in the part of town most tourists spend time in (the "loop" which is the south end of Michigan Avenue area and the "magnificent mile" which is the north end of Michigan Avenue. This building is about 3/4 of a mile south and west of the tourist areas and just not on folks' radar, I suspect. It's a stunning building -- one of the most beautiful in the city.
Great close-up of this - so much architectural detail I have never appreciated before. If not already done, I bet someone could write a book about Chicago's urban myths.
Thanks for viewing, commenting, and faving, Corrie and Pam! I really appreciate it. I've taken this shot a number of times but never could get it to come out without blowing out the light. I finally did it through the magic of HDR, so I'm especially glad you liked it!