Written by Rosanne | Last updated 20th August 2019
Because they are often produced in multiples, many underestimate the value of art prints. With paintings, sculptures, installations and other one-offs, however, it's easy to see why these works of art are so valuable, especially when produced by a world-renowned artist. But what increases the value of an art print? Our in-house experts are here to guide you through a few factors besides artist and signature that you may not have considered before. Follow our guide to determining the value of a print and equip yourself with the information you need to win that special masterpiece here.
Original Piece
Prints are not always just reproductions and they are not always made in multiple editions. In fact, a lot of artists choose to work with printing techniques to create original artworks of just one piece. These pieces have the highest value because when it comes to art, people appreciate originality.
Edition
The edition or number of prints produced in a run is one of the most important factors in determining the value of an art print. If a work is owned by a large amount of people, it lowers the exclusivity and therefore the value. Also having more prints in an edition lowers the chances that the artist was directly involved with the production of each and every one. So the smaller the edition, the more the prints are worth. For an investment-worthy buy, look for a print with an edition size below 100 and stay away from prints with an unlimited number of reproductions known as open edition prints.
This unique Black Panther metal print, numbered 2/50 (number 1 was gifted to the cast of the film), sold for €411 at our Comics auction
First Edition
When a print comes in limited edition, the number doesn't really matter - for example 90/100 would be no different in value from 2/100. The exception to this is when it comes to the very first print of the edition, for instance 1/100. This one is generally more popular with collectors and has therefore more value than a random numbered one.
Artist Proofs
When creating their prints, artists make so-called artist proofs (A.P.) or épreuve d’artiste, which are extra prints that don’t count in the edition number. They don’t necessarily have to be similar to the final result, since they are used as a test to see whether the artist likes their design. They are higher in value because they reflect the ideas and process of the artist.
When creating their prints, artists make so-called artist proofs which tend to be high in value because they reflect the ideas and process of the artist
Deviations
Sometimes prints show deviations. For example, if they were made with slightly different colours or if they were hand-finished by the artist. Within the limited editions, these prints are especially valuable, since they are one-of-a-kind.
Frame
In general, prints are very fragile artworks. They are easily affected by direct light and can be scratched or ripped quickly. When buying a print on the secondary market, try to look for one that is already framed, as a frame will help protect the print inside. If the work is already quite old, but it has always been framed, this is a good indication that the print is still in good condition.
Paper and Mounting
The materials used to create the work also has an effect on the value of the print. Prints on fancy types of paper such as Hahnemühle and archival paper tend to be of higher value. When a print is mounted on aluminium, bamboo or plexiglas, they become especially valuable.
Printing Technique
Every printing technique requires different materials and a different process, creating a different result. Therefore, the different techniques also affect the value. More labour-intensive techniques result in more valuable prints. One example would be the use of multiple colours. A print featuring many colours will almost always be more valuable than a black and white one. Another example is size. Larger prints require more skill to produce, and therefore larger prints are generally more valuable.
The printing technique and the paper used can influence the value of an art print
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Feeling informed and ready to look for your next print? Head over to one of our Classical Art auctions, or for something more contemporary our Modern & Contemporary Art section will have you covered.
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