The Law Courts 1905

Joseph Pennell made this etching, called The Law Courts, most likely using a metal plate and acid, to render a vision of architecture. Look at how he uses the lines – they're not just describing edges but building up tone, atmosphere. The whole image feels like a dance of light and shadow. See how Pennell varies the pressure and speed of his lines. The density of the marks at the base of the building creates a sense of weight, but as you look up, the lines become more delicate, almost dissolving into the sky. It’s like he’s capturing a fleeting moment, a city in flux. Check out the steeple on the right. It's not just a solid form; it's a collection of tiny, energetic strokes that somehow give it volume and presence. Think about other artists like Whistler who were playing with similar ideas. Pennell seems to be part of an ongoing conversation about how we see and represent the world around us. It’s a reminder that art isn't about fixed answers but about endless questions.