Portret van Johann Lukas Schönlein 1859

This portrait of Johann Lukas Schönlein was made in the 19th century by Paul Rohrbach, using a technique called lithography. Lithography involves drawing an image on a flat stone or metal plate with a greasy substance, then applying ink, which adheres only to the drawn areas. This allows for the production of multiple, relatively inexpensive prints. The marks left by this process are evident in the subtle gradations of tone that define Schönlein's face and clothing. The controlled strokes give an incredible sense of depth and texture. Lithography democratized image-making, making portraits accessible to a broader audience beyond the elite who could afford painted portraits. It reflects a shift in the art world, blurring the lines between craft and fine art. It's a reminder that the value of an artwork lies not only in its aesthetic qualities but also in its social context and the labor involved in its creation.