The Square 1920

This is "The Square," an etching by Joseph Pennell, made sometime in the late 19th or early 20th century. There's a real charm in the way Pennell uses line here, don't you think? It’s almost like he’s sketching directly onto the plate, capturing a fleeting impression. The material aspects are fascinating. The ink is delicate, almost transparent in places, allowing the paper to breathe through. You can see the light, feathery lines he used to build up the image, particularly in the trees framing the square. Look closely at the steps in the foreground. See how the parallel lines suggest depth and shadow? It's as if Pennell is inviting us to step into this urban oasis. I'm reminded a little of Whistler's etchings, that shared interest in capturing the atmosphere of a place. But Pennell brings his own sensibility, a kind of energetic looseness. Ultimately, art is about seeing the world in new ways, and Pennell certainly offers us a unique perspective.