Gezicht op Margate 1896

Joseph Pennell made this print of Margate using lithography, a process that relies on the contrast between oily and water-based substances. The image was likely drawn on a stone or metal plate with a greasy crayon, then treated to fix the drawing. Notice how the lithographic process lends itself to a delicate, almost ethereal depiction of the coastal scene. The subtle gradations of tone and fine lines create a sense of atmospheric perspective, drawing you into the vastness of the landscape. It's a process that invites a certain looseness and spontaneity. Although Pennell's materials and processes were those of a fine artist, printmaking has always had a close relationship to wider social issues, notably the world of commerce. The ease with which prints can be reproduced has made them powerful tools for disseminating information. Ultimately, this print reminds us that even the most seemingly straightforward landscape can be deeply embedded in material practices and social histories. By attending to these details, we can gain a richer understanding of the artwork's significance.