"Colpo d'ala"(wing-beat) is distinguished from other public monuments in downtown by remembering a national as well as an international endeavor. The Marshall Plan was an historic effort in which the United States, motivated by a mix of high-minded altruism and national self-interest, financed the restoration of Europe's war ravaged economies.
In gratitude for the $1.5 billion Italy received between 1948 and 1952, Italian Prime Minister Ciriaco De Mita presented the six ton bronze sculpture to the United States on December 12, 1988 at dedication ceremonies commemorating the 40th anniversary of the Marshall Plan. Los Angeles was selected as the site for the gift because the city represents the "the model American city of the Space Age."
Arnaldo Pomodoro, artist.