Technique
Lithography
A planographic printing technique based on the repulsion of grease and water. The image is traditionally drawn on limestone or a metal plate.
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Understanding the term
The artist draws with a greasy material on a grained stone or plate. After chemical treatment, the drawn areas accept printing ink while dampened areas repel it. The process can preserve a direct, almost drawn quality of line.
When Lithography is given as a technique, it describes the process that created the work's impression, structure or surface. Technique and subject are distinct: very different images can be made using the same method.
The process can often be read in edges, lines, layers and surface. It can also explain natural variation between examples and offer useful evidence about workflow, edition and appropriate care.
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