Jongeman laat oudere heer passeren naar de salon 1843

Paul Gavarni made this print, "Jongeman laat oudere heer passeren naar de salon," using lithography, a printmaking technique where an image is drawn on a stone or metal plate with a greasy substance. The lithographic process allows for incredibly fine lines and subtle tonal variations. The greasy crayon resists water, so when the stone is dampened, ink adheres only to the drawn areas. The printmaker then transfers the image to paper. Gavarni's choice of lithography enabled him to capture the nuances of social interaction with incredible detail. It speaks to the growing accessibility of image production in the 19th century. This printmaking was often employed for mass-produced images, reflecting a shift in the art world towards more democratic forms of expression. By focusing on the materials and processes, we can see how Gavarni’s work blurs the lines between fine art and commercial illustration, offering a fascinating glimpse into the social and artistic landscape of his time.