Old Court 1905

Joseph Pennell made this drypoint etching, "Old Court," in 1906. The image depicts one of the Inns of Court in London, specifically Lincoln's Inn. Pennell was an American expatriate artist living in London at the time, drawn to the city's rich history and architectural grandeur. This image, with its intricate details and dramatic contrasts of light and shadow, evokes the atmosphere of a centuries-old institution steeped in tradition. These Inns were and remain central to the organization of the English legal profession. They represent a closed, hierarchical social world and a powerful elite. What makes this image interesting is how it portrays the Inns of Court. Is it a celebration of British tradition, or a subtle critique of its exclusivity? To answer this question, we can look at the art market and critical reception of Pennell's work in early 20th century Britain. Through this kind of research, we can better understand the complex social dynamics reflected in this seemingly straightforward architectural study.