Patriotische maaltijd te Londen, 1813 Possibly 1814

This print by R. Reeves depicts a patriotic dinner held in London in 1813, commemorating the emancipation of Holland. It’s a lithograph, a printmaking technique that relies on the chemical repulsion of oil and water. The process begins with a smooth stone, on which the image is drawn with a greasy crayon. The stone is then treated with chemicals so that only the drawn areas attract ink. When printed, the greasy image transfers to paper, creating a relatively quick and inexpensive way to reproduce images, perfect for mass consumption. Notice how the lithographic process allows for capturing fine details, from the expressions on the diners' faces to the intricate architectural details of the hall. The print served as a form of propaganda, celebrating a political event and promoting a particular view of international relations. Its very existence speaks to the growing importance of visual media in shaping public opinion, turning political events into commodities. By understanding the materials and techniques, we gain insight into its role in early 19th-century society.