De slimme poedel Caro 1878

De Ruyter & Meijer created this print, "De slimme poedel Caro," using lithography, a process where an image is drawn on a stone or metal plate with a greasy substance, then printed. The material qualities of lithography allowed for the mass production of images, making art more accessible. This particular print, part of a series, tells a story through sequential images, much like a comic strip. The visual narrative unfolds thanks to the printing press. Considering the social context, the print reflects the rise of consumer culture and mass media. Lithography enabled the creation of affordable visual entertainment for a broad audience, demonstrating the intersection of art, technology, and popular culture. The level of work needed to create the print reflects the demand for accessible art. This print challenges traditional distinctions between fine art and craft by using commercial printing techniques to create an engaging visual narrative.