Omslag voor: Studies van bomen c. 1820 - 1835

J. Bernard made this lithograph in France as a cover for “Studies of Trees,” a collection that compiled work “after different masters.” The print was produced in the Mulhouse studio of G. Engelmann, director of the local lithographic society. The image itself provides a window into the institutions of art at the time. Consider the role of lithographic societies in disseminating artistic knowledge and taste. This print suggests a particular focus on the study of nature, specifically trees, “after” the example of established masters. What pedagogical assumptions are at play? To get a better understanding of the function of this print, we might look into the history of art education in 19th-century France. We could also research the lithographic society, its members, and its other publications. What was the relationship between the institution of the “society” and commercial printers? By exploring the social and institutional context of this image, we can better understand its role in shaping artistic practices.