Who painted English War Work: The Gun Shop?

English War Work: The Gun Shop was painted by Joseph Pennell in 1916.

Where can I see English War Work: The Gun Shop?

English War Work: The Gun Shop is held by Cleveland Museum of Art.

Artwork

English War Work: The Gun Shop

Joseph Pennell , 1916

English War Work: The Gun Shop is a print by Joseph Pennell. It dates from 1916 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.

About this work

The artist drew the scene with sharp lines and careful shading to show every detail.

This print shows rows of workers in a gun shop busy with rifles, bolts, and tools. Each figure has a clear job—some assemble parts, others check or package pieces. The artist drew the scene with sharp lines and careful shading to show every detail.

The artist made this during World War I to show America’s home-front effort. America wasn’t fighting yet but was already making guns for allies.

Look up Joseph Pennell (American, 1857–1926) to see more of his wartime prints.

Overview

English War Work: The Gun Shop is a 1916 print by Joseph Pennell, an American artist known for his industrial scenes and landscapes.

Subject & Meaning

The print depicts a wartime gun shop where workers are engaged in various tasks such as assembling, checking, and packaging rifle parts. The scene reflects the industrial effort during World War I.

Technique & Style

Pennell's detailed rendering of the scene is characterized by sharp lines and careful shading, highlighting the workers' tasks and the industrial environment.

History & Provenance

Created in 1916, the print was made before the United States entered World War I, but during a time when the country was already producing munitions for its allies.

Context

The work is part of Pennell's broader documentation of modern industry and landmarks, influenced by his European residence and training under artists such as James Lambdin and Thomas Eakins.