Misdadiger en zijn familie op de vlucht 1832

Jean Pierre Marie Jazet created this lithograph, "Misdadiger en zijn familie op de vlucht," using a process that democratized image-making. Lithography involves drawing with a greasy crayon on a stone or metal plate, then treating it with chemicals so that ink adheres only to the drawn areas. This printmaking technique allowed for the relatively quick and inexpensive reproduction of images, making art more accessible to a wider audience. The lithographic process itself is crucial to understanding the print's social context. Unlike traditional engravings, which required highly skilled artisans and were costly to produce, lithography allowed for a more direct and efficient means of creating images. This shift had significant implications for the art market, enabling the mass production of prints and contributing to the growth of visual culture in the 19th century. It's a reminder that the artwork's meaning is deeply intertwined with its means of production and its place within broader social and economic forces.