Artwork
The Foundations, Building a Skyscraper
The Foundations, Building a Skyscraper is an ink print by Joseph Pennell. It dates from 1910 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.
About this work
Overview
The Foundations, Building a Skyscraper is a 1910 lithograph by Joseph Pennell, an American artist known for his industrial and architectural subjects.
Subject & Meaning
The print depicts a nighttime urban construction site, with workers and machinery scattered around scaffolding and lumber, conveying the raw energy of building a skyscraper.
Technique & Style
Pennell used quick, rough lines to capture the movement and chaos of the scene, with a dark background that makes the workers and materials stand out sharply.
History & Provenance
Pennell was born in 1857 and trained under James Lambdin and Thomas Eakins, later being influenced by James McNeill Whistler, and collaborated with his wife Elizabeth Robins on art criticism and publications.
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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.
