Grandes constructions n°19 : Coffret

Épinal print, color lithograph, large format, printed on heavy paper.
A tiny corner chip, otherwise handsome condition, colors very well preserved.
These sheets are cardboard constructions or models, on which a pattern was printed. This pattern must be cut out then assembled to construct various objects or life scenes.
The Épinal imagery published several series of cut-out models including the "Grandes Constructions" in 39 x 49 cm format, the "Moyennes Constructions" and the "Petites Constructions". From 1880 to 1908, constructions were published featuring architecture, costumes, boats and various vehicles. During this same period, paper theaters or "théâtre chez soi" also enjoyed great success. This toy model developed and lasted until the Second World War.
Once sold by peddlers, the Épinal prints owe their name to Jean-Charles Pellerin, who was the first printer to publish this type of image in series, and who lived in the town of Épinal (Vosges). The subjects are very varied but generally revolve around religion, history (French Revolution, battles, military uniforms), or drawn from successful novels. Épinal imagery takes its origins in popular art imagery born in the 15th century intended mainly for the illiterate rural public.
Originally, the image is engraved on a wooden board and printing is done using a hand press. It is then colored using stencils. In the 19th century, lead castings were made from the engraved wood: the stereotypes, which allowed production to be increased. In 1820, lithography was adopted, which induced a radical style change, with finer drawings. In 1900, coloring was still done with stencils, thanks to a machine that could color 300 images per hour, the Aquatype.