Lithography
Definition
This term refers to a printmaking technique that involves drawing an image onto a flat stone or metal plate with a greasy substance, then using chemical processes to transfer the image onto paper. Lithography is known for its ability to capture fine details and subtle gradations of tone, making it a popular technique for both artistic and commercial prints.
History
Lithography was developed in the late 18th century and became a major printmaking technique in the 19th century, particularly in the fields of advertising and fine art. Artists like Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec and Edvard Munch have used lithography to create works that capture the dynamic energy of modern life and the emotional intensity of human experience.
Notable Examples
Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec
Moulin Rouge 1891,
Key Artists & Movements
Key figures include Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec, whose poster Moulin Rouge: La Goulue is a classic example of lithography used in advertising, combining bold colors and dynamic composition to capture the spirit of Parisian nightlife, and Edvard Munch, whose lithograph of The Scream is a powerful expression of existential angst and one of the most iconic images in art history.
Techniques & Materials
Techniques involve drawing an image onto a flat stone or metal plate with a greasy crayon or ink, then treating the surface with a chemical solution that makes the non-image areas repel ink while the image areas hold it. The plate is then inked and pressed onto paper to create the print. Lithography allows for a wide range of effects, from fine, detailed line work to broad, expressive washes, making it a versatile technique for both realistic and abstract works. The ability to produce multiple copies of an image also made lithography a popular medium for commercial art, including posters and illustrations.
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