1916
ink
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
Dominant colour
Planing Big Shells is a 1916 ink by Joseph Pennell, held at National Gallery of Art.
This sketch shows a busy shipyard with cranes, workers, and piles of wood. The scene is messy, full of ropes, machinery, and half-built structures. People are scattered around, some standing on platforms, others near the water. The artist focused on the rough, industrial side of shipbuilding—no smooth lines, just sharp edges and heavy shadows. The word "Planing" in the title hints at the woodworking involved. Check out how this was made using lithography.
Joseph Pennell (July 4, 1857 – April 23, 1926) was an American draftsman, etcher, lithographer, and illustrator for books and magazines.
See the richer artist pageYour cart is empty
Explore artworks →
