Foundry Square, San Francisco, California

Time Signature

Time Signature, a landmark sculpture at the major urban intersection of First and Howard streets, commemorates a site that has a rich industrial history of metal foundries, fundamental to the building of San Francisco. Early forging tools influenced the imagery of Time Signature. In particular, the crucible — which holds metal as it transforms into its molten state — provides inspiration for the sculpture’s form.

Richard Deutsch developed the concept for Time Signature to distinguish this historic urban site through an inspired marriage of art and architecture. Four glass buildings that define the corners of First and Howard streets unify as one architectural concept through their geometry, materials, location, and artistic philosophy. Set against the 100-foot-tall vertical glass facade of south facing Building One, Time Signature juxtaposes five curved stainless steel vessels that soar to 48 feet. Sensitive to the elements of light, translucency, and reflection, Time Signature is activated as it responds to the changes in time of day and season.

Time Signature is a luminary and theatrical place marker contributing to the dynamic San Francisco cityscape. Utilizing high-tech stainless steel and modern fabrication technology, Time Signature stands as a meaningful symbol honoring San Francisco’s industrial past while inspiring its future.