Gezicht op het kasteel van Lahamaide 1822 - 1825

This print of the Castle of Lahamaide was created by Jean-Baptiste Madou, using a technique called lithography. Lithography involves drawing an image on a flat stone or metal plate with a greasy crayon, then applying ink, which sticks only to the drawn areas. From there, the image is transferred to paper. Lithography was a relatively new method in Madou’s time, an exciting way to reproduce images quickly and relatively cheaply. Looking closely, you’ll notice the subtle gradations of tone, achieved through careful manipulation of the crayon and the printing process. The texture of the stone itself also subtly influences the image. Lithography democratized image-making, making art more accessible to a wider audience. This print speaks to broader shifts in artistic production and consumption during the 19th century. Ultimately, the meaning of this print lies not only in its subject, but also in its making, reflecting the changing landscape of art and society.