Ready to Start

Joseph Pennell

National Gallery of Art

The image shows a naval shipyard with a large battleship at the center. The ship has tall masts, rigging, and flags. Cranes and scaffolding surround the ship, hinting at construction or maintenance. The scene is depicted in a sketch style using fine pencil or charcoal strokes. The color scheme is monochrome with shades of grey and black. Ground lines suggest tracks, leading the eye into the scene. Small human figures are seen near the base of the ship. Airplanes are sketched in the sky.