Dix Assassinats Pour Un Sou 1897

Théophile Alexandre Steinlen made "Dix Assassinats Pour Un Sou" with lithographic ink on paper. Here, printmaking isn't just a way to reproduce images, but a crucial part of the artwork's message. The lithographic process allows for the creation of stark contrasts and detailed lines. The heads are rendered with deep shadows and sharp features, enhancing the gruesome nature of the subject. The lithographic technique lets Steinlen create multiple copies of the image. The low cost in the title, and the use of a reproducible medium, hints at the cheapening of human life. Steinlen was known for his social commentary, often depicting the struggles of the working class. This print is no exception. By using a medium capable of mass production, he makes a statement about the value society places on individual lives, especially those of the poor and marginalized. The choice of materials and method amplifies the artwork's social critique, blurring the lines between fine art and the realities of everyday life.