Grandes constructions : Le Diable et Polichinel. Imagerie d'Épinal Pellerin n°562

Épinal Image, color lithograph, large format, printed on heavy paper.
Very slight fold marks at lower corners, otherwise in very fine condition with very well-preserved colors.
These sheets are cardboard constructions or models, on which a pattern was printed.
This pattern is meant to be cut out and then assembled to build 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 as subjects. 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 images 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 popular novels. Épinal imagery has its origins in imagery, a popular art form born in the 15th century intended primarily for the illiterate rural public.
Originally, the image is engraved on a wooden board and printing is carried out using a hand press. It is then colored using stencils. In the 19th century, lead castings called stereotypes were made from the engraved wood blocks, which allowed production to be increased. In 1820, lithography was adopted, which brought about a radical change in style, with finer drawings. In 1900, coloring was still done by stencil, using a machine that could color 300 images per hour, the Aquatype.