Artwork
Work Castles, Wilkesbarre
Work Castles, Wilkesbarre 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
The buildings lean in odd shapes, their shadows stretch long across the ground.
This lithograph shows tall, crumbling stone castles along a riverbank. The buildings lean in odd shapes, their shadows stretch long across the ground. Tiny boats float near the shore, making the huge walls look even bigger.
It’s a quiet scene from 1910, made when stone castles were rare in America. Pennell visited Wilkes-Barre and saw these old ruins. He turned them into a moody print with thick, rough lines.
Try a close-up of another lithograph by Pennell, Joseph.
Overview
Work Castles, Wilkesbarre is a 1910 lithograph by Joseph Pennell, an American artist known for his landscapes and industrial scenes.
Subject & Meaning
The print depicts the remains of stone breakers, or 'castles,' along a riverbank in Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania. These structures, used in the local coal industry, are shown in a state of disrepair, their imposing forms contrasted with small boats on the river.
Technique & Style
Pennell's lithograph is characterized by thick, rough lines and deep shadows, creating a moody atmosphere. The artist's use of lithography allowed him to capture the textures and forms of the decaying castles.
History & Provenance
Pennell created this work after visiting Wilkes-Barre, where he was inspired by the unusual stone structures. The print reflects his interest in documenting industrial scenes, a theme that ran throughout his career.
Artist & collection
Artist
Joseph Pennell (July 4, 1857 – April 23, 1926) was an American draftsman, etcher, lithographer, and illustrator for books and magazines.
