au Lido 1924

George Barbier made this print, "au Lido," using pochoir, a highly refined method of stenciling. The evenness of the color suggests an industrial printing process. However, pochoir is actually a hand-applied technique, prized for its ability to achieve nuanced colors and textures. Artisans carefully cut stencils from metal or celluloid, then brushed watercolors through them onto the paper. This process was often used for luxury fashion prints, as the handmade quality aligned well with the world of couture. Consider the labor involved: each color in the image requires a separate stencil, and the application demands precision. There is a fascinating tension here, between the print's association with mass media, and the intense handcraft that went into its production. Looking closely at the print reveals the subtle textures and variations achieved through the pochoir process. By understanding the means of its making, we gain a deeper appreciation for the cultural values embedded in this seemingly simple scene.