Byzantine No.1 1856

Owen Jones created “Byzantine No.1”, an intricate lithograph print, using stone and printing press. The material itself, lithographic limestone, has a unique relationship with grease. Jones would have drawn these patterns with a greasy crayon; then, after treating the stone, it could be inked and printed many times. Looking closely, you can see the subtle tonal variations achieved through this process. Jones isn't just presenting pretty patterns; he's showcasing the ingenuity of Byzantine design. The patterns embody a fusion of cultural influences, and their reproduction through industrial means makes them accessible to a wide audience. The choice of lithography democratizes what might otherwise be exclusive, hand-rendered designs. This makes the viewer think about labor, politics, and consumption. Appreciating “Byzantine No. 1” fully means acknowledging the ingenuity of the original artisans and the means of production used to bring this work into being.