New State Omnibus, or, The Man wot is Cad to the Man wot was Cad to the Man wot drove the Sovereign 1834

This lithograph, created by John Doyle, presents a snapshot of early 19th-century British society through the lens of commercial transportation. The printmaking process, using a flat stone or metal plate, allowed for the relatively quick and inexpensive reproduction of imagery. This was crucial in disseminating political and social commentary to a wider audience. Note the satire embedded within the image, suggesting the social hierarchy among transportation workers, highlighted by the inscription at the bottom. The artist skillfully employs line and tone to depict the figures and omnibus. The lithographic technique, which relies on the skilled application of grease and ink, is evident in the nuanced gradations of light and shadow, giving depth to the composition. The mass production of such prints speaks to the burgeoning print culture of the time, driven by technological advancements and increasing demand for accessible imagery. It underscores the relationship between art, commerce, and social commentary.