Cornélie Falcon in de rol van Rachel in de opera La Juive c. 1835 - 1850

Théodore Lejeune made this print of Cornélie Falcon in costume using lithography, a process that democratized image-making in the 19th century. Lithography allowed for relatively quick reproduction, greyscale, and subtle tonal variations, perfectly suited for capturing the textures and details of Falcon’s theatrical dress. The process involves drawing on a flat stone or metal plate with a greasy crayon, treating it with chemicals, and then using ink to transfer the image onto paper. The relative ease of production meant that images like these could circulate widely, contributing to the burgeoning culture of celebrity and performance. It also speaks to the rise of consumer culture, with fashion and costume becoming increasingly important elements of public life. It’s a reminder that even seemingly ephemeral forms like theatrical costume could be captured and disseminated, thanks to the clever application of material and technique. Ultimately, this print exists at the intersection of artistic skill, technological innovation, and the social dynamics of its time, underscoring the value of craft in understanding cultural history.