The following is the method used to prepare maps for publication in Queensland from the 1860s, using the lithographic process.
After compilation of a map by a cartographic draftsman, a specialist lithographer transferred the map to a printing stone (specially imported limestone from Bavaria). The detail was traced in reverse onto the stone using 'greasy ink'. The lithographs were printed from this stone with a slow production rate of 300 copies/hour.
The work on the stone fattened after being used as a print master. This consequently made the original unsuitable for further reproduction. However, before this occurred, the stone was inked and a paper copy 'pulled'.
Whilst the ink was still wet on the paper, it was dusted with a fine red powder, known as raddle or dragon’s blood. The powdered copy was very carefully placed on a new stone and was then run through the press, leaving a powdered impression on the stone. The edges of the sheet were glued in position around the stone.
Small sections of a protective paper cover were gently raised to allow redrawing of the work without disruption to the remainder of the powdered image.
During this period, production of a coloured map containing, for example five colours, would require the preparation of five such separate powdered impressions.
The stones were heavy and fragile. It was important that they were perfectly aligned with the paper to retain registration integrity. The final output quality and texture was exquisite.
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