Pompoen, tomaten en kersen 1836

Anton Weiss made this still life of a pumpkin, tomatoes, and cherries in the 19th century, using lithography. This printmaking process allows for the creation of images that closely resemble drawings, as we see here in the delicate rendering of textures and forms. Lithography involves drawing on a flat stone or metal plate with a greasy crayon, then treating the surface so that ink adheres only to the drawn areas. The print is then made by pressing paper against the inked surface. The real skill comes in understanding how to achieve the right pressure. Weiss coaxes a full range of tones from his stone, from the velvety shadows to the subtle bloom on the fruit. The print captures the essence of the natural forms, revealing Weiss’s deep understanding of both the artistic process and the inherent beauty of the produce. So, next time you look at a print, think about the labor and expertise involved in bringing the image to life. It’s a reminder that art is not just about the subject matter, but also the skill and care that goes into its making.