Spotprent 1878

Johan Michaël Schmidt Crans created this print of the "Draft Criminal Code" in 1878 using a technique called lithography. This is a printmaking process where the artist draws on a flat stone or metal plate with a greasy substance, then uses ink to transfer the design onto paper. Lithography was a relatively new technology in the 19th century, enabling mass production of images like this one. Notice how the lines are crisp and the details are clear, allowing the artist to convey a sense of satire and social commentary. The process also allows for easy reproduction and distribution, making it a perfect medium for political cartoons. In this artwork, lithography serves a crucial purpose. It facilitates the wide dissemination of the artist's message, turning it into a tool for raising public awareness and shaping political discourse. It underscores how even the choice of materials and methods can contribute to the work's meaning, blurring the lines between fine art and popular media.