Les Bigarrures de l 'esprit humain, No. 19 : Enfin, ma chére, (...) c. 1830 - 1831

Joseph Lemercier created this hand-colored lithograph called 'Les Bigarrures de l 'esprit humain, No. 19' sometime in the 19th century. The lithographic process involves drawing with a greasy crayon on a stone, which is then chemically treated so that only the drawn areas will accept ink. Here, the lithography has captured the scene with considerable detail, from the patterned wallpaper to the folds of the women’s dresses. The subsequent application of color by hand is crucial; it adds depth and character, highlighting the fabrics and the emotional atmosphere of the scene. The print's relatively small size and accessible medium meant that it could be widely distributed and consumed. This speaks to the burgeoning print culture of the 19th century and a growing middle class that sought affordable art. The handmade aspect of coloring each print also tells us about the labor involved, with artisans adding value to the mass-produced image. Paying attention to materials, processes, and social context allows us to understand the artwork's full meaning, challenging traditional distinctions between fine art and craft.