Definition: Lithography is a printing process based on the principle that oil and water do not mix. It involves creating an image with a greasy substance on a flat surface, typically limestone or a metal plate. The image is then chemically treated to retain ink where the greasy image is drawn, while the rest of the surface repels ink. When pressed onto paper, the inked area transfers the image. Lithography is used for artistic prints as well as commercial printing of books, posters, and packaging.
Etymology and Origin: The term ‘lithography’ comes from the Greek words ‘lithos’, meaning ‘stone’, and ‘graphein’, meaning ‘to write’. The technique was invented in 1796 by the German author and actor Alois Senefelder as a cheap method of publishing theatrical works. The use of lithography expanded rapidly in the 19th century, revolutionizing the printing industry and becoming a popular method for creating artistic prints.
