Pennell, Joseph “The Cathedral, Panama”

Joseph Pennell. "The Cathedral, Panama." 1912.  Etching.  9 1/4 x 12 1/4.  Signed in pencil.  Framed.  Private edition.  Wuerth 629.   John F Braun (1867-1939) commissioned Joseph Pennell etch a private edition print of his house in Merion, Pennsylvania.  The house, “Sogno Mio” (My Dream) was designed by Day and Klauder Architects and is Italian Renaissance in style.  It was designed purposely to display his large collection of American painting which was one of the largest at the time.  The house still stands and is located on North Highland Street in Merion, Pennsylvania.  Braun was a very successful businessman, art connoisseur and musical devotee.  Pennell etched two prints of the building and this print is a view of the back of the house from the gardens.  Joseph Pennell (1860-1926) was an etcher, lithographer, illustrator and author.  He is one of the best known and respected of American artists from the etching revival period.  Born in Philadelphia, Pennell trained at the Penns