Lithograph History

• A lithograph has its roots in Munich, Germany where the original lithographs were produced from Bavarian limestone. They (the stones used for lithograph productions) are difficult to ship due to their size and they are also very heavy. The art on the stone is dependent on a chemical reaction; the lithograph traditionally was produced on 90 percent to 95 percent calcium carbonate.
  
  

Print History

• Prints have their roots in the great depression, particularly during the 1930s and the era of the New Deal. According to art expert Helen Langa, "...economic constraints encouraged artists to explore prints as a way to make art for the millions." A print was seen as an inexpensive way to encourage a love of art while supporting the mandate of artists in selling work and promoting the industry. The popularity of prints was seen as linked to the advancement of democratic ideals in America: the entitlement of all to fine art during a period when increased focus was placed on democratic values.
  
  

About Lithographs

• The lithograph specialist and artist, Senefelder, continuously improved the process during his lifetime, receiving awards and medals for his work. The first collection of lithographs was published in London in 1803 and included works by American artist Benjamin West (1738-1820), Irish painter James Barry (1741-1806) and Anglo-Swiss artist Henry Fuseli (1741-1825). Originally, many artists thought that only black-and-white lithographs could be reproduced, but over time, experts have mastered the art of mixing the chemicals to ensure all colors can be incorporated into a piece of work.
  
  

About Prints

• Prints are popular in modern day with artists and art experts in all genres ranging from preserved works of art to modern contemporary and landscape artists. Print pricing, the availability of artist-run print shops and the benefits to emerging artists have helped grow the print market through the post-Depression era. Customers may want limited edition versus mass market works, but mass market prints do still sell, particularly if it is a print of a famous piece of work.