Artwork

The Union League

The Union League, by Joseph Pennell, ink, 1912
The Union League, by Joseph Pennell, ink, 1912

The Union League is an ink print by Joseph Pennell. It dates from 1912 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

The Union League is a 1912 lithograph by Joseph Pennell, an American artist known for his depictions of urban landscapes and industrial scenes.

Subject & Meaning

The print captures a bustling city street, with cars, horses, and pedestrians amidst tall buildings, one under construction. The scene conveys the energy and activity of urban life, with a focus on the street level.

Technique & Style

Pennell employed loose, expressive lines to convey the dynamism of the scene, with less attention to detail in the taller buildings. His skill in lithography allowed him to effectively capture the moment.

History & Provenance

Pennell created the work during a period spent largely in Europe, drawing on his interest in urban and architectural subjects. He was influenced by artists such as James McNeill Whistler and trained under James Lambdin and Thomas Eakins.

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.