Portret van Parmigianino c. 1826 - 1852

Nicolas Maurin produced this portrait of Parmigianino using lithography, a printmaking technique rooted in the burgeoning industrial era. The lithographic process begins with a smooth stone or metal plate, on which the artist draws with a greasy crayon. This drawing is then chemically treated, allowing ink to adhere only to the drawn areas, enabling the creation of multiple impressions. Notice how Maurin masterfully utilizes the lithographic process to capture the texture of Parmigianino's beard and the soft folds of his clothing. The subtle gradations of tone, achieved through careful manipulation of the crayon, lend depth and dimension to the image. Lithography, as a relatively quick and inexpensive means of reproduction, democratized image-making in the 19th century. Prints like this made art accessible to a wider audience, facilitating the circulation of knowledge and ideas. Considering the social context of its production, this portrait underscores how artistic techniques intertwine with broader cultural and economic forces.