Moyennes constructions : Train de Paris à St-Germain. Locomotive. Imagerie d'Épinal Pellerin n°1091

Image d'Épinal, color lithograph, medium format, printed on heavy paper.
Tear to lower margin not affecting the print, colors very well preserved.
These plates are cardboard constructions or models, on which a pattern was printed.
This pattern is to be cut out and 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 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. The imagery of Épinal has 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 plate and printing is carried out using a hand press. It is then colored using stencils. In the 19th century, lead castings are made from the engraved wood blocks: the stereotypes, which make it possible to increase production. In 1820, lithography was adopted, which induced a radical change in style, with finer drawings. In 1900, coloring was still done with stencils, thanks to a machine that could color 300 images per hour, the Aquatype.