Spotprent over de begroting voor 1873, 1872 1872

This lithograph was made by Johan Michaël Schmidt Crans in 1872. It is ink on paper, a common material for disseminating political ideas at that time. The choice of lithography is itself significant. This printmaking technique allowed for relatively quick reproduction, making it an ideal medium for political commentary intended for a broad audience. The stark, linear quality of the lithograph lends itself well to caricature, emphasizing the figures' expressions and the satirical tone. Consider how the artist uses the medium to convey a sense of urgency and critique. The composition, with its allegorical figures and symbolic elements, reflects the social and political tensions surrounding the budget for 1873. The artist uses the graphic qualities of lithography to provoke thought and discussion about issues of labor, resources, and the distribution of wealth. Ultimately, this print demonstrates how a 'low' medium like lithography can be elevated to the level of potent social critique, blurring the lines between craft, design, and fine art.