Annunciation Bridge in St. Petersburg c. 1820

This print, titled "Annunciation Bridge in St. Petersburg", was made in the early 19th century by C. Schultz. Prints like this one were often made using techniques such as lithography or engraving, processes that allowed for the relatively quick reproduction of images, fulfilling a growing demand for views of cities and landmarks. The level of detail suggests a skilled artisan meticulously transferring an image onto a plate or stone, then using ink to repeatedly transfer it onto paper. Consider how the print medium itself contributes to the work’s impact. The subtle gradations of tone, the crisp lines defining the architecture and figures, and the overall sense of depth, all speak to the artistry involved. This would have been a valuable commodity for those seeking to appreciate the world through accessible, reproducible imagery, indicative of the era’s evolving relationship between art, industry, and consumer culture.