Spotprent naar aanleiding van de aankoop van een schilderij van Verboeckhoven, 1862 1862

This lithograph, "Spotprent naar aanleiding van de aankoop van een schilderij van Verboeckhoven", was made in 1862 by Johan Michaël Schmidt Crans. The printmaking process allowed for the relatively quick production of multiple impressions, making it a particularly effective medium for satire. Here, we see a scene rendered with quick, economical lines. The fluidity of the lithographic crayon is evident in the loose depiction of the animals and the figure. Lithography's reproducibility made it ideal for circulating social commentary, and this print critiques the art market's tastes. The artist uses the smoothness of the lithographic stone to his advantage, creating an image that is both detailed and spontaneous. The medium’s capacity for mass production is key to its social function here, distributing a critical viewpoint on artistic patronage to a broad audience. The print bridges the gap between artistic creation and public opinion.