The Magical Art of Antique and Vintage Lithography

Lithography is a captivating and versatile art form that has enchanted viewers for over two centuries. Originally innovated by German author and actor Alois Senefelder in 1796, lithography involves printing on a smooth surface of limestone or metal using the immiscibility of oil and water.

In the mid-1900s, Fernand Mourlot invited a number of 20th-century artists to work directly on lithographic stones, resulting in truly captivating works of art in various styles and forms. These fine art prints, created through a collaboration between artists and master printers, can be found in both art galleries and as advertising prints.

While the term "lithograph" traditionally refers to fine art prints, it is often used more broadly to describe any printed matter made using the lithographic process. Despite this evolution, the impact of lithography is still evident today in production printing and even home printing.