The DARKROOM COOKBOOK, Third Edition

154 THE DARKROOM COOKBOOK
Collodio-Chloride Printing Out Paper
Also known as Collodion Aristotype Paper
Mark Osterman
Collodio-Chloride Printing Out Paper
Also known as Collodion Aristotype Paper
© 2008 Mark Osterman. All rights reserved. Reproduced by permission of the
author.
The collodion chloride printing out process was fi rst introduced by Gaudin in 1861
but never realized commercial success or general acceptance until the1880s when clay
coated paper stock was adopted for photography. In 1884 Liesegang introduced a collodion
chloride emulsion for paper which he called Aristotype. It was related to the wet
plate collodion process, used to make negatives, ambrotypes, and ferrotypes, but relies
on emulsion technology.
The Aristotype Company in Jamestown, New York, introduced the most popular collodion
papers in two different fi nishes: glossy and matte. The formula below is for making
a glossy fi nish paper. Glossy papers were typically toned to a purple brown using
gold chloride. Matte papers were toned with platinum and gold and look very much
like a platinum print. Regardless of the fi nish or toning approach, collodion papers were
the most archival of all silver halide photographic papers and are easily identifi ed today
because they are usually found in excellent condition.
Collodio-Chloride Emulsion
Caution: Collodion, the binder for this emulsion, is a clear viscous solution made by dissolving
nitrated cellulose in ether and alcohol. It is fl ammable and you should take care
not to coat papers or expose open containers of collodion to the presence of sparks or
fl ames. Purchase Collodion USP for this process.
Formulae and Emulsion Mixing Directions
The alcohol listed in this formula is ethyl alcohol (also known as ethanol or grain
alcohol). The strength should be as strong as possible since water will be used to dissolve
some of the solid chemicals. Some water is necessary in collodion formulas, but
too much will cause chambered markings in the fi lm called “crepe lines.” The following
can be done under common household light.
Solution A
Strontium Chloride, 1.0 g
Alcohol, 4.0 ml
Glycerin, 4.0 ml
Distilled water, 5.0 ml