Persian No.3 1856

Owen Jones made this print, "Persian No. 3," using chromolithography, a process which allows for the reproduction of colorful designs on a mass scale. Chromolithography relies on the skilled labor of draftsmen to meticulously separate each color in a design, and transfer them onto individual limestone blocks or metal plates. What we see here are examples of Islamic ornamentation, rendered in precise detail. Note the variety of colours; the surface is smooth to the touch, yet each block would have required expert carving and preparation. The method enabled the creation of vividly coloured prints, mimicking the richness of hand-painted originals, but at a fraction of the cost. Jones' work highlights the shift towards industrialized art production in the 19th century. While celebrating the aesthetic achievements of Islamic design, it also reflects a changing landscape where mechanized reproduction transformed the creation and consumption of art, raising questions about authenticity, labor, and value.