Lithograph
Definition
This term refers to a printmaking process in which an image is drawn onto a flat stone or metal plate with a greasy substance, then treated with a chemical process that ensures the image will attract ink while the rest of the surface repels it, allowing for the creation of multiple copies of the image with a high level of detail and tonal variation.
History
Lithography was invented in the late 18th century and became a popular medium for both fine art and commercial printing in the 19th and 20th centuries. Artists like Toulouse-Lautrec and Picasso used lithography to create works that combined the qualities of drawing with the ability to produce multiple copies, making it an ideal medium for both artistic and commercial purposes.
Notable Examples
Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec
Jane Avril, 1893
Pablo Picasso
Le Repas Frugal, 1904
Key Artists & Movements
Key figures include Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec, whose lithographs capture the vibrant nightlife of Paris in the late 19th century, and Pablo Picasso, who used lithography throughout his career to explore various styles and themes, creating some of his most famous prints in this medium.
Techniques & Materials
Techniques involve the preparation of a stone or metal plate, drawing the image with a greasy substance, and then processing the plate with a chemical solution. The plate is then inked and pressed onto paper, transferring the image. Lithography allows for a wide range of tonal variation and detail, making it a versatile medium for both black-and-white and color prints. Artists may experiment with different drawing materials, chemical processes, and inking techniques to achieve the desired effects, often working closely with master printers to produce high-quality lithographs.
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