Artwork

The Founder's Tomb, Church of Saint Bartholomew the Great

The Founder's Tomb,  Church of Saint Bartholomew the Great, by Joseph Pennell, ink, 1903
The Founder's Tomb,  Church of Saint Bartholomew the Great, by Joseph Pennell, ink, 1903

The Founder's Tomb, Church of Saint Bartholomew the Great is an ink print by Joseph Pennell. It dates from 1903 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

The Founder's Tomb, Church of Saint Bartholomew the Great is an etching created by Joseph Pennell in 1903. It is a print that captures the interior of a historic London church.

Subject & Meaning

The etching depicts a simple stone tomb within the medieval setting of the church. The tomb, adorned with a recumbent figure, is positioned between two tall arches, with three arched windows on the wall behind it, conveying a sense of quiet reverence.

Technique & Style

Pennell employed quick, sketchy lines to convey texture in the stone and fabric, achieving a balance between precision and atmospheric effect. The etching technique allowed for detailed rendering of the Gothic detailing and the overall somber ambiance of the church interior.

History & Provenance

Pennell, an American artist influenced by Thomas Eakins and James McNeill Whistler, created the work during his extended residence in Europe, where he focused on architectural and urban subjects, often recording notable landmarks and religious sites.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Joseph Pennell

Artist

Joseph Pennell

Joseph Pennell (July 4, 1857 – April 23, 1926) was an American draftsman, etcher, lithographer, and illustrator for books and magazines.

This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: National Gallery of Art open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.