Lithographs are a printing technique that involves drawing on a flat stone or metal plate with a special grease pencil. The surface is then treated with a chemical solution that allows ink to adhere only to the drawn areas. This method enables artists to create multiple copies of their work, making it a popular choice for reproducing images and illustrations. The process was invented in the late 18th century by Alois Senefelder, a German playwright. Lithography quickly gained popularity among artists and publishers, leading to the creation of many famous prints and posters. Today, it remains a valued technique in both fine art and commercial printing.