lithograph

How to Tell the Difference Between an Original and a Lithograph

Introduction

Using a lithograph is a way to make many original prints of one image. An artist draws a picture onto a metal plate or stone using a pencil, crayon, or paint. This picture is pulled onto good quality paper by a master printer or by the artist themselves. The more involved the artist was in the creation of the print, the more expensive the print will be. Offset copies are not created by the artist and do not have their stamp of approval

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You'll Need:

- Form of magnification

Instructions

Step 1

Research artists who have used and who currently use lithographs. Learn how lithographs are made. Find out the differences between original fine art lithographs and offset lithograph copies. Look at examples of originals and reproductions online.

Step 2

Check the picture for a signature. Every original impression will have a unique pencil signature on its bottom right corner. This signifies that that print was produced and approved by the artist. Sometimes the artist will also put their seal on the artwork.

Step 3

Look at the edition and series numbers. You can find these numbers under the signature and they will look like a fraction. The top number tells us the print’s place in creation. The bottom number tells us how many prints were created.

Step 4

Inspect the lithograph under some sort of magnification. Original lithographs will have solid and rich color and their ink will be smooth. Offset lithograph prints will be made of many imprecise and tiny dots.

Step 5

Consider the paper. Original lithographs will be printed on heavyweight, acid free paper that may have been handmade. They will show no rims of ink, metal plate markings, or raised ink surfaces. Original lithograph prints will come with a certificate of authenticity that explains the print’s history.

Tip

Check out lithograph art by Chagall, Renoir, and Picasso.

Warning

To be sure of the print’s authenticity, only buy fine art from reputable art galleries, houses, or auctions.

Gallery: What Is An Original Print?

http://www.studio1617.com/prints.htm