FAQs

How are fine art prints numbered?

The system of numbering and documentation of fine-art editions is designed to guarantee the authenticity and originality of prints in the art market.

Each edition print is signed by the author usually in the lower right-hand corner or margin. In the opposite corner goes the edition numbering, two numbers divided by a slanted stroke.

The bottom number represents the total number of prints in the edition; the top one the order in which the artist has signed that particular print.

Editions

An edition is a number of prints struck from one plate, usually at the same time.

This may be a limited edition, with a fixed number of identical prints numbered in succession and signed and supervised by the Artist. Limited Edition prints are produced on the understanding that no further impressions (copies) will be produced later, or an open edition limited only by the number that can be sold or produced before the plate wears.

Most modern artists produce only limited editions, normally signed by the artist in pencil, and numbered as say 67/100 to show the unique number of that impression and the total edition size.

In offset reproductions, artist's proofs are additional prints not included in, but of the same quality as, the regular edition. In original prints, artist's proofs are the first prints pulled, which are the truest prints in the edition because the plates and screens have not yet been worn down. Artist's proofs are distinguished by the abbreviation "AP" and are numbered separately; they often represent 10 percent of an edition and are slightly more expensive than prints in the regular edition.

Canvas Print: A reproduction in which the image is printed onto canvas. These prints may be p roduced using offset lithography, digital printing or other methods. Artists may add brush strokes directly onto the canvas after the piece has been printed.

New Fine Art Giclée Prints (ghee-clay) are produced using the most advanced form of digital printmaking. Images are generated from high resolution digital scans and printed with archival quality inks onto various substrates including canvas, fine art, and photo-base paper.

The Giclée process provides one of the highest degree if accuracy and richness of color available with unsurpassed color depth and life-like reproduction of the original artwork.

A Remarque is a small, personalized drawing or symbol that an artist adds (near his or her signature) on a print. The presence of a remarque increases the print's value.

Image Size is generally the physical dimensions of an image without the white border which surrounds it.

Original: A one-of-kind image created by the Artist. An Original Painting may be used to create fine art prints.