Joseph Pennell (1857-1926) was an American etcher, draughtsman, lithographer, and book and magazine illustrator. He published over 100 books and co-authored several travel books with his wife , the author Elizabeth Robbins Pennell. Pennell became one of America's most important etchers and was instrumental in the revival of printmaking.

Joseph Pennell Biography

• Born on July 4, 1857 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA.
• Studied at the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts.
• In 1884, he traveled to Europe and settled in London.
• He creates etchings, pen drawings, and lithographs of architecture, cityscapes, industrial scenes, and landmarks.
• His work has appeared in magazines such as Century Magazine, McClure's Magazine, and Harper's Magazine.
• In 1907, he was elected an associate member of the National Academy.
• In 1909, he was elected a full member of the National Academy.
• He died in New York on April 23, 1926 (aged 68).

Representative works

• etching:

  • "Panama Canal" Series (1912)
  • "New York Skyscrapers" series
  • "Historic European Cities" series

• Lithograph:

  • "Factory of the First World War" series

Pennell's style and achievements

Pennell's work is characterized by precise line drawings, bold compositions, and a skillful use of light and shadow. He artistically portrayed architecture and cityscapes while taking into account their structural beauty and historical background . He also depicted the factories and machines born from the Industrial Revolution as beings that combine strength and beauty.

Pennell made a major contribution to the revival of etching in America. He was not only highly skilled, but also innovative in his choice of subject matter and his methods of expression, influencing many artists.

As one of America's leading printmakers, Pennell's work conveys to us in the present day the landscape of an increasingly modern society and the strength of human endeavors.