Zingende pianist treedt op 1853

This lithograph of a ‘Zingende Pianist’ was made by Paul Gavarni, sometime in the mid-19th century. Lithography is a printmaking process using a flat stone or metal plate, and is traditionally used to create prints with a similar look to drawings. In this case, the artist has captured the intense expression of a musician as he plays, surrounded by his audience. The medium allowed the artist to capture nuances of expression, and it's fascinating to consider the social context of this image. The print would have been relatively affordable, and allowed a wider audience to engage with art. It speaks to a growing middle class with an interest in cultural pursuits, but also to the labor involved in producing art for this market. Paying attention to the materials and making of this lithograph helps us understand its place in society, reminding us that art is always connected to the world around it.