Spotprent met premier Peel Possibly 1845

This print, by John Doyle, was made using lithography, a process that democratized image-making in the 19th century. Lithography allowed for relatively quick reproduction. The artist drew with a greasy crayon on a slab of limestone. The stone was then treated with chemicals so that ink would adhere only to the drawn areas. This printmaking technique was a boon to political cartoonists like Doyle, whose work commented on contemporary events. Here, he caricatures Prime Minister Peel. Note the emphasis on labor: the figures strain, their bodies contorted in exertion, highlighting the demanding nature of political life, or perhaps, commenting on the efforts required to manipulate public opinion, or win political favor. Doyle's choice of lithography underscores the link between artistic production and broader social and political contexts, reminding us that even seemingly simple prints can be powerful tools of communication and critique. The method of production influences the image, as well as its reach.