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English War Work:  In the Jaws of Death, Rolling Bars for Shells, by Joseph Pennell, 1916

English War Work: In the Jaws of Death, Rolling Bars for Shells

Joseph Pennell

1916

From the collection of Cleveland Museum of Art

Dominant colour

Overview

English War Work: In the Jaws of Death, Rolling Bars for Shells is a 1916 by Joseph Pennell, held at Cleveland Museum of Art.

Who painted this?
Joseph Pennell
When & what style?
1916
Where can I see it?
Cleveland Museum of Art

About this work

This painting shows a dark, industrial scene. A large machine dominates the center, with several workers around it. The room is dimly lit, with light coming from the machine and a few other sources. In the foreground, a worker is shown in action, while others are standing or sitting in the background. The overall mood is one of intensity and industry. The artist's use of chiaroscuro creates a sense of depth and drama, drawing the viewer's eye to the machine and the workers. For more on this technique, look up chiaroscuro.

About the artist

Portrait of Joseph Pennell
Artist

Joseph Pennell

Joseph Pennell (July 4, 1857 – April 23, 1926) was an American draftsman, etcher, lithographer, and illustrator for books and magazines.

See the richer artist page

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