Untitled [Maquette for the Legislative Office Building, Albany, NY]
antine nivola, tino nivola (1911 – 1988)
Explore the work of Costantino Nivola (Antine Nivola), Italian sculptor & designer known for abstract architectural reliefs, sandcasting techniques, and contributions to mid-century modern design. Discover his Olivetti collaborations & legacy at Maga
Magazzino Italian Art (Cold Spring, United States of America)
Discover Postwar & Contemporary Italian art at Magazzino Art! Explore Arte Povera, Murano glass, and innovative architecture in Hudson Valley's unique museum experience.
Nivola realized this design for his last largescale sandcast commission: the lobby of the Legislative Office Building in Albany, New York. The Legislative Office Building, part of the Empire State Plaza complex in downtown Albany is home to the Legislative Branch of the New York State Senate, responsible for drafting and approving revisions to the laws of New York. Nivola’s relief is negatively cast, and he relied on these to execute his projects. The design consists of a series of abstracted figures contained within pronounced geometric forms, a detail that registers the artist’s unique sandcasting process. The maquette’s grid-like pattern is reflected in the full-scale version of the work, although the divisions have been reconfigured. In the model, the four horizontal sections are split into five. The work in situ, on the other hand, emphasizes the vertical axis; the number of separate panels is reduced to four.
About this artwork
- Title: Untitled [Maquette for the Legislative Office Building, Albany, NY]
- Artist: antine nivola, tino nivola
- Year: 1972
- Format: Portrait
- Copyright status: Under copyright
- Where to see it: Magazzino Italian Art
- Main color: Putty
- Color hue: Golden Yellow Range

