In NYC, it is a building requirement that skyscrapers and other large buildings provide "public use" areas. On 53rd Street between Park and Madison, are a couple of these little "public areas" for people to sit and rest, read a book, eat a sandwich.

This one has a seating area, a fountain and wall of concrete with art on it:

I'm not sure what it is, or what it signifies. I couldn't find a sign or signature or title that gave any information. I'm not certain, either, whether the graffiti scrawled across the piece is part of the art, or a comment on it.

ADDED 4/3/07: My friend Lowell wrote to tell me that he believes this is part of the Berlin Wall. I'm not saying he's wrong -- and it would be very cool -- but if it is a part of the Wall, there should be a sign that says so.

UPDATED: The little seating area has been spruced up and now there is a sign that says it is part of the Berlin Wall.

Tecnorati Tags: NYC Public Areas, Berlin Wall