Spotprent 1878

This is a lithograph by Johan Michaël Schmidt Crans, made in 1878, using the method of drawing on a flat stone and printing. The relatively young process of lithography allowed for the swift production of images for mass consumption. Here, the artist makes a political point about Dutch universities. But he does so through a newly industrialized process, making this a true product of its time. The lithographic technique lends itself to the reproduction of fine lines and details, crucial for conveying satire and commentary in newspapers and magazines. The medium itself democratizes the art form, making it accessible to a wider audience. Consider the labor involved: from quarrying the limestone, to the drafting, printing, and distribution. Each step contributed to the artwork’s existence. It makes you wonder whether the artist was even aware of these issues. As you reflect on this image, think about how the materials and methods used to create it are deeply intertwined with the social context of the late 19th century.