Re-introducing

These fine images are reproduced from original chromolithographs. Chromolithography is the art of producing colored prints from lithographic stones. Invented in Germany in 1796, chromolithographs had a dazzling and meteoric life. They revolutionized the painting industry and brought exquisite and lush color to all printed matter. These images were often used as advertisements and accompanied several products ranging from baby food, to chocolate, to fashion. Chromolithography was often referred to as the "democracy of art" for middle class families because the layering of the colors gave them a texture, richness and feel of an oil painting, yet the images could be easily attained and shared. Chromolithography eventually vanished because its production became far too expensive to survive.