Twee reiswagens before 1864

Charles Rochussen created this print, "Two Travel Wagons," using lithography, a process that democratized image-making in the 19th century. 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. This method allowed for relatively quick and inexpensive reproduction, making images like this accessible to a wider audience. The print captures a bustling street scene with horse-drawn wagons and numerous figures, all rendered with meticulous detail thanks to the lithographic process. Rochussen's choice of lithography speaks to the changing social landscape, where mass production and consumption were becoming increasingly important, and where art was no longer limited to the elite. Considering the materials and processes used to create this print helps us understand its social and cultural context, highlighting the intersection of art, technology, and everyday life.