Le mari lisant: nous étions mollement étendus... c. 19th century

This lithograph was made by Honoré Daumier in the 19th century. Lithography is a printmaking technique that exploits the resistance between grease and water. The artist draws on a stone or metal plate with a greasy substance, then applies ink that adheres only to the drawn areas. It’s a process that allows for very fine detail and tonal variations. Daumier, working in the era of mass production, turned to this technique, which was quick and economical, to publish images in newspapers and journals. Lithography was perfectly suited to satire and social commentary. Notice the rough texture and subtle gradations of tone that create a sense of depth and atmosphere. This material and its processes were not just a way to reproduce images; they were integral to the work's message. By embracing this reproductive technique, Daumier was able to connect with a broad audience, bypassing the traditional art world. He used materials and making to engage with wider social and political issues.