Fotoreproductie van het schilderij 'Lit du Vitznauerbac, Lac des Quatre-Cantons (Suisse)' door Paul Gustave Robinet before 1884

This is a photographic reproduction of a painting by Paul Gustave Robinet, printed by Valadon & Cie. Boussod. Though it presents the appearance of fine art, its very nature prompts us to consider mechanical reproduction. Photogravure is a printmaking process, using photography to etch an image into a metal plate, which is then inked and printed. The resulting image bears a continuous tone, like a photograph, and fine detail. The material qualities of ink on paper simulate the play of light and shadow in the original painting. The firms of Valadon and Boussod, successors to Goupil & Cie, were instrumental in disseminating art through such reproductions. This made art more accessible, but also commodified it, transforming unique artworks into easily consumed objects. Consider the labor involved: from the painter Robinet, to the skilled technicians at Valadon & Cie. Boussod, each contributing to the final product. This photogravure prompts questions about authenticity, value, and the role of technology in shaping our understanding of art, highlighting the complex interplay between art, industry, and society.