Selecting Aviation Art Lithographs For Collectors
Lithographic prints are reproductions of original works of art. The use of lithographs provides an opportunity for many people to enjoy the beauty of an art piece in the convenience of their home at an affordable price. The use of lithographs are extremely popular for aviation art by collectors.
The making of a lithographic print is complex and detailed. A print is made using separate passes on a lithographer’s press which puts a layer of color on the print. A minimum of four colors are required to obtain a full color spectrum. And, when completed the lithograph is an exact replica of the original work of art.
Selecting the lithograph that will become most valuable from a collector’s standpoint will depend on the category of print you select. An individual who is collecting a specific series of aviation art may find that the pieces in one category provide more options and potential added value than another category.
Lithographs that are collected are accompanied by a Certificate of Authenticity that is signed by the artist in a graphite pencil. The use of the pencil in signing protects the certificate from any possibilities of forgery. The print may be numbered and if so, selected a number from one to fifty increases the value of the print from the time you select it.
A popular lithograph that is extremely affordable is the Open Edition lithograph. This print does not have any limitation on the number of prints made, nor is it numbered. One way that this print will increase dramatically in value is when the artist has added a Remarque to the print. This is a small object or doodle that is related to the lithograph in the margin of the print. The Remarque makes the piece a unique print that cannot be duplicated and thus becomes one of a kind.
A Limited Edition is one of the more common types of lithographs sold. These pieces are numbered, signed by the artist, and have a limited number of printings. They are not reprinted once the series has been completed and the original printing plates are destroyed after the last print has been made. This insures that the value of the print will increase with time.
A Master Edition lithograph is signs, numbered, and printed like the Limited Edition but the details on the lithograph are enhanced by the artist. The artist may add a unique feature to the lithograph and create an original piece on the lithograph that a collector has received.
When a special lithograph is made for a group of veterans they are categorized in the Veteran Edition lithographs. The prints are restricted to the specific group for which they are made, are numbered and signed by the artist. The plates are destroyed and there are no further printing done of the lithograph after they have been distributed to the veteran group.
Museums and diplomats often receive a Presidential Proof from an artist or group.These lithographs are printed on canvas and have intricate detailing by the artist. In many cases an observer cannot tell that the print is not the original piece. The prints are not sold and are numbered and maintained in large centers or galleries.
Want to find out more about aviation art, then visit Jacob Biggs’s site on how to choose the best lithographs for your needs.