Isamu Noguchi, Shinto, 1974-75, aluminum (now destroyed)Commissioned by Bank of Tokyo for its renova

Isamu Noguchi, Shinto, 1974-75, aluminum (now destroyed)

Commissioned by Bank of Tokyo for its renovated lobby in Manhattan’s Financial District, Noguchi’s Shinto was intended to act as a counterpoint to the Corinthian columns it was suspended between, left intact from the original space by the architects. Unfortunately the looming 17 foot tall form was claimed to have intimidated customers and Bank of Tokyo dismantled and removed it in 1980. Noguchi only learned of its removal after the fact. 

Photo by Ezra Stoller / ESTO

The Noguchi Museum Archive