Erik Nitsche (Swiss, 1908 - 1998) "Underground Exhibit Hall for Automobiles" Signed lower right. Original Mixed Media painting on Illustration Board. Provenance: Collection of James A. Helzer (1946-2008), Founder of Unicover Corporation. This painting is the original painting which was published on the Fleetwood First Day Cover for the Itay Europa 1987 Modern Art - Architecture stamp issued May 4, 1987. The Renaissance of classical architecture began in Florence, Italy about 1420 and since that date the achievements of Italy's architects have been world renowned. The influence of Renaissance architecture spread into every corner of Europe through the magnificent structures, most notably the basilicas with their awe-inspriing domes. Throughout the Baroque and into the nineteenth century, Italy maintained its place as a leader in architectural innovations. Today, modern Italian architects remain among the most respected in Europe for their designs and implementation of ideas into attractive and functional structures. An important modern structure in Italy is the Underground Exhibit Hall for Autombiles in Turin. Built of steel and concrete, this structure was completed in 1959. Architect Riccardo Morandi is one of Italy's most important architects and designers; he is famous for his bridge over the Lagoon of Maracaibo of Polcevera near Genua and the bridge of Barranquilla, Columbia. Image Size: 14 x 12 in. Overall Size: 20 x 15 in. Unframed. (B10846)