In almost the same vein as the architectural documentary photography of Bernd and Hilla Becher, Manhole Covers is exactly what it says it is: a collection of photographs of manhole and various utility covers. The photographs tell a fascinating story of the foundry products of long ago--they are a testament to the aesthetics of American industrial artisans. Travelling all over the United States, Robert and Mimi Melnick compiled this intriguing and edifying documentation of functional art.