North Shore in Pittsburgh in Allegheny County, Pennsylvania — The American Northeast (Mid-Atlantic)

"Piazza Lavoro" and "Mythic Source," 1984

Ned Smyth (American, born 1948)

— Aggregate and marble mosaic; Commissioned by the Heinz family and H.J. Heinz Company —

"Piazza Lavoro" and "Mythic Source," 1984 Marker image. Click for full size.

Photographed By Devry Becker Jones (CC0), September 10, 2020

1. "Piazza Lavoro" and "Mythic Source," 1984 Marker

Inscription.
This two-part sculpture recognizes the significant contributions of Pittsburgh and to American labor history by a symbolic representation of labor's role in our nation's development. The human figures populating the facades are engaged in this activity, while the palm trees and marine life are reminders of the delicate balance between civilization and nature.

On the upper level, "Piazza Lavoro" suggests the heights to which civilization may be elevated. On the lower level, "Mythic Source" refers to life's aquatic origins and the sustaining powers of the water.

Collection of Museum of Art, Carnegie Institute

Erected by City of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

Topics. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: Industry & Commerce • Labor Unions • Natural Resources • Settlements & Settlers.

Location. 40° 26.844′ N, 80° 0.169′ W. Marker is in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, in Allegheny County. It is in North Shore. Marker can be reached from Isabella Street just west of Vulcan Way, on the left when traveling west. Touch for map. Marker is at or near this postal address: 2 Isabella St, Pittsburgh PA 15212, United States of America. Touch for directions.

Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker. "The Forks," 1984 (within shouting distance of this marker); Allegheny Cotton Mill Strikes

Paid Advertisement

Click on the ad for more information.
Please report objectionable advertising to the Editor.

Click or scan to see
this page online

(within shouting distance of this marker); Allegheny City (within shouting distance of this marker); "Pittsburgh Variations," 1984 (within shouting distance of this marker); "The Great One" (about 400 feet away, measured in a direct line); Frederick J Osterling Office & Studio (about 600 feet away); Timber Court (about 600 feet away); Seventh Street Bridge (approx. 0.2 miles away). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Pittsburgh.

Photographed By Devry Becker Jones (CC0), September 10, 2020

2. "Piazza Lavoro" and "Mythic Source," 1984 Marker

Credits. This page was last revised on February 2, 2023. It was originally submitted on September 13, 2020, by Devry Becker Jones of Washington, District of Columbia. This page has been viewed 466 times since then and 82 times this year. Photos: 1, 2. submitted on September 13, 2020, by Devry Becker Jones of Washington, District of Columbia.