The Lake of Fire, Charleroi 1911

Joseph Pennell’s 1911 etching, "The Lake of Fire, Charleroi," depicts the intense industrial activity of the Belgian city of Charleroi. The dramatic composition showcases a fiery glow reflecting off the water, highlighting the city’s steel mills and their impact on the surrounding landscape. The towering smoke plumes and dark silhouettes of the factories create a stark contrast against the night sky, creating a powerful and evocative image of the industrial age. Pennell’s mastery of etching is evident in the detailed depiction of the scene, capturing the raw energy and harsh beauty of Charleroi's industrial heart.