Type Populaire Du Profil 

Théophile Alexandre Steinlen made this lithograph, *Type Populaire Du Profil,* using a stone matrix and oily crayons or tusche. The lithographic process involves the careful preparation of a stone, on which the artist draws an image. The stone is then treated chemically, so that ink adheres only to the drawn areas, before being printed onto paper. Here, the texture of the stone, and the artist’s application of the crayon have imbued the work with social and cultural significance. Steinlen's choice of lithography was deliberate. As a relatively inexpensive medium, it allowed him to create multiple impressions, making his art accessible to a wider audience. This reflects his socialist leanings and his desire to depict everyday life and the working class. The amount of work involved in the lithographic process – from preparing the stone to pulling the prints – speaks to the labor involved not only in creating art, but also in the lives of the people Steinlen portrayed. Paying attention to materials, making, and context helps us to appreciate the social significance of this artwork, blurring the lines between fine art and craft.