Joseph Pennell NYC

A beautifully produced collection of original color and halftone prints of New York City circa 1909. These collectible prints are from the drawings of Joseph Pennell. An interesting glimpse into the architecture of the city at the turn of the century. 

Joseph Pennell (1860-1926) was an etcher, lithographer, illustrator and author. He is one of the most well-respected of American artists from the etching revival period. Pennell was born in Philadelphia and trained at the Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts and at the Pennsylvania School of Industrial Art. From 1883, Pennell spent most of his time in Europe, until 1917 when he moved back permanently to the United States. Over his distinguished and prolific career, he won many medals and awards in the United States and in Europe, and is considered one of the great etching innovators of the time. Amongst his other achievements, Pennell illustrated and authored many books, contributed to leading magazines and was one of the founders of the Philadelphia Society of Etchers.

Pennell's prints had many themes, including monuments, cities, factories and for one documentary series, the Panama Canal. Pennell printed many of his own lithographs and etchings, and he continuously experimented with techniques and materials. His work is desirable for his technique, artistic style and the varied subject matter that he so imaginatively portrayed.