"The studies are painful, expensive; but the students are intrepid" from Scenes from the Private and Public Life of Animals 1832 - 1852

This lithograph was made by J. J. Grandville in the 19th century, using a stone matrix and greasy crayons to create a design that would repel water and accept ink. The printmaking process allowed for multiple impressions of the artwork, making it more accessible to a wider audience. The technique is well-suited to Grandville’s satirical style. Notice how the qualities of the lithographic crayon – its ability to render fine lines, and also broad tonal washes – are ideal for capturing the texture of the bird’s head, the fabric of his clothing, the cobblestones underfoot. By merging human and animal traits, Grandville critiques social norms and human behavior. The detailed rendering, achieved through lithography, adds to the impact of this satirical commentary. The print is not just an image, but also an artifact of 19th-century print culture, which brought art to a broader public. The combination of skilled artistry, the lithographic process, and social critique makes this work a powerful example of art's engagement with society.