Moyennes constructions : La Lessiveuse. Imagerie d'Épinal Pellerin n°1008

Image d'Épinal, color lithograph, medium format, printed on heavy paper.
Very fine 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 type of toy developed and lasted until the Second World War.
Once sold by peddlers, Images d'Épinal 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 imagery, a popular art born in the 15th century intended primarily for the illiterate rural public.
Originally, the image is engraved on a wooden block and printing is done using a hand press. It is then colored using stencils. In the 19th century, lead castings are made from the engraved wood blocks: stereotypes, which allow production to be increased. In 1820, lithography is adopted, which induces a radical change in style, with finer drawings. In 1900, coloring is still done by stencil, thanks to a machine that can color 300 images per hour, the Aquatype.