Ready for Service Again

Ready for Service Again

Joseph Pennell

1917

ink

From the collection of National Gallery of Art

About this work

This sketch shows two big, old-style warships docked side by side. The ships have tall masts, thick metal sides, and lots of ropes and sails. People are walking on the decks and along the dock, and a crowd gathers near the bow of the ship on the right. The drawing is mostly in pencil and ink, with quick, sketchy lines. The ships look like they’re being prepped for something—maybe repairs or a big event. The artist focused on the details of the ships’ structures, like the cannons and rigging. Want to know more? Check out how this was made using lithography.

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