St. Paul's 1886

Joseph Pennell made this etching, St. Paul’s, which captures the grandeur of London's iconic cathedral, during a period marked by significant social and urban transformation. Pennell, an American expatriate, was part of a wave of artists drawn to Europe's rapidly changing cities. His work often reflects the energy and dynamism of modern life, but also hints at the alienation that accompanies industrial progress. Here, the looming architecture of St. Paul's dwarfs the figures milling in the foreground, suggesting a tension between individual experience and the overwhelming scale of urban development. Pennell’s choice of etching, with its intricate lines and tonal variations, adds a layer of depth to the scene, evoking the sensory richness of the city. Look at how the artist directs our gaze through a blend of shadow and light, and how it might evoke a sense of awe. This artwork invites us to reflect on the relationship between architecture, identity, and the human experience within the modern city.