La Né d'une Modiste, 1828 : Chap. V: Que lui répondre ? c. 1828

Gottfried Engelmann created this lithograph around 1828, a period when this printing technique was still relatively new. Lithography involves drawing on a flat stone with a greasy crayon, then treating the surface so that ink adheres only to the drawn areas. In this case, it allowed Engelmann to capture the subtle gradations of tone in the women's dresses, and the delicate lines of their faces. The print depicts two women, one seated and writing, the other leaning in with a questioning look, and its title translates to 'What to Answer Him?'. This highlights the social context of the artwork. The scene suggests the importance of communication and relationships, while also hinting at the constraints placed upon women. The lithographic process, though relatively efficient for its time, still required skilled labor. By focusing on the material and making of this print, we can appreciate its artistic and social significance.