What is "lithotypy"

Lithotypy \Li*thot"y*py\, n. [Litho- + -typy.] The art or process of making a kind of hard, stereotype plate, by pressing into a mold, taken from a page of type or other matter, a composition of gum shellac and sand of a fine quality, together with a little tar and linseed oil, all in a heated state.

n. The art or process of making a kind of hard stereotype plate, by pressing into a mould, taken from a page of type or other matter, a mixture of shellac and fine sand, together with a little tar and linseed oil, all in a heated state.