Artwork
The Acropolis from the Temple of Jupiter, Athens
The Acropolis from the Temple of Jupiter, Athens is an ink print by Joseph Pennell. It dates from 1913 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.
About this work
Overview
The Acropolis from the Temple of Jupiter, Athens is a 1913 lithograph by Joseph Pennell, an American artist known for his prints of landmarks and landscapes.
Subject & Meaning
The print depicts the ancient Acropolis ruins in Athens from an elevated viewpoint, focusing on the rough texture of broken stone columns and crumbling steps in the foreground, with the rocky hill and distant buildings in the background.
Technique & Style
Pennell's lithograph is characterized by rough, dark lines with minimal shading, giving it a sketch-like quality. The technique of lithography allowed for a graphic, precise rendering of the scene, reflecting Pennell's interest in architectural subjects.
History & Provenance
Pennell was influenced by his teachers James Lambdin and Thomas Eakins, as well as James McNeill Whistler's compositional approach. He spent much of his career in Europe, documenting historic sites.
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Artist & collection
Artist
Joseph Pennell (July 4, 1857 – April 23, 1926) was an American draftsman, etcher, lithographer, and illustrator for books and magazines.
