Limited Edition Art Work - How to Identify

Limited edition, or "numbered" art work commands a higher price and has more value than art that is produced in volume. While NOT an original, a limited edition means just that: there is only a certain quantity available, and once the last one has been purchased, no others will be produced. Following is some basic information anyone purchasing a limited edition should have.

When you see a number in fractional form (usually located along the bottom of the art work and followed by the artist's signature) it indicates the piece is a limited edition. The denominator (bottom number) tells you how many total pieces are available. The numerator (top number) tells you which of the "strikes" you are buying. A strike is essentially a copy or reprint. So, if you see this: 4/15, it means you are buying the fourth copy out of only fifteen available. Generally, the lower the denominator, the more value the art will have because there are fewer pieces in existence. As a rule, if the number of reprints available is greater than five hundred, the art won't be of much value (at least not in your lifetime). This number is debatable, but a good guideline.

Another indicator to look for is "AP" (also located along the bottom of the art). It stands for "artist's proof" and is the next best thing to the original. When an artist makes the decision to create prints from the original, he probably will not be satisfied with the first one. The print making process can be complicated and quite involved in order to achieve the best result. There are different processes of layering inks to arrive at the best reprint. The goal is for the reprint to be as true as possible to the original. When the artist is finally satisfied with the quality of the reprint, the chosen one becomes the artist's proof, followed by edition #1, #2 and so forth. All further prints are created from the proof. The artist's proof may or may not be priced a bit higher than the subsequent editions; it usually is but to the right person may be well worth it.

Knowing what to look for and what this numbering and labeling system means is important. It will help you in your decision making process and give you some idea as to the existing and/or potential value of the art you purchase. Not everyone is in the market for higher end art such as we're discussing. But, a limited edition is an excellent alternative for those without the budget or timing to be able to go for the original and is certainly of higher quality and value than a poster style print.

I've Been Framed is a full service, professional, custom framing facility located in Tully, NY just minutes outside of Syracuse. Owned and operated by Liz Addison for over twelve years, we strive to work with each individual to design the perfect frame presentation for their art, while maintaining the highest level of quality. We offer an extended selection of domestic and European mouldings and a wide range of acid-free materials to ensure your art looks beautiful, is uniquely suited to you and is thoroughly protected for longevity. Liz has over fifteen years experience working in the custom framing industry and a client list including area museums and galleries, artists, interior designers, sports organizations, and both residential and commercial customers. We are fully insured and all work is done on premises. Please visit our web site http://www.ivebeenframedbyliz.com