Portrait of Joseph Pennell America, 20th century

Portrait of Joseph Pennell

1917

Childe Hassam

(American, 1859–1935)

America, 20th century

lithograph

Gift of Mrs. Childe Hassam 1940.116

Catalogue raisonné: Kleeman 31; Griffith 3

Edition: 83

Location: not on view

This artwork is known to be under copyright.

Did You Know?

Joseph Pennell, seen here, was not only a printmaker but an avid promoter of the medium who published multiple books such as 1898's Lithography and Lithographers.

Description

This print commemorates the friendship between its creator and subject. Both were active in the community of artists and galleries in early 20th-century New York. Joseph Pennell appears in his studio, standing amid a printing press and an array of supplies. He was known for inspiring an interest in lithography throughout America and taught Childe Hassam the technique around the time this print was made. Here, Pennell stands before a window with a shade partially drawn to control the light that is central to his process, allowing him to focus singularly on artistic creation.