Mallard Egret Chromolithograph by J. Bien

• Chromolithograph - A chromolithograph is a type of print that uses multiple layers of color to create a detailed and vibrant image. The process was invented in the mid-19th century and quickly became popular for reproducing a wide variety of images, including advertisements, illustrations, maps, and art prints.
  
  Chromolithography is a complex process that involves creating a separate stone or metal plate for each color in the image. The artist or printmaker first draws the image on a stone or metal plate using a greasy substance, such as a crayon or a wax-based ink. This image is then transferred to a separate plate for each color in the image. The plate is then coated with a thin layer of a light-sensitive substance, and then exposed to a light source. The light hardens the parts of the plate that are not covered by the image, creating a raised surface that will hold the ink.
  
  Once the plates are ready, they are inked up with the corresponding color and printed one at a time, with each color being printed on top of the last. The process is repeated for each color, with the final image being made up of many layers of color.
  
  It was widely used in the late 19th century and early 20th century for posters, postcards, advertising and illustrations in books and magazines. However, chromolithography has been largely replaced by modern printing techniques such as offset printing and digital printing, which are faster, cheaper, and more efficient. Today, chromolithography is mainly used for fine art prints and reproductions, as well as for creating limited-edition prints of historical or cultural significance

This item has been included into following indexes:

• Audubon, Jean Jaques (United States) - art works 3
• engravings and lithographs 1,710
• lithographs 1,732