Selecting Aviation Art Lithographs For Collectors

By Jacob Biggs

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.

When you are looking for a collectors lithograph check the Certificate of Authenticity to make sure that it has been signed in graphite pencil by the author. The lithographic will be numbered if it is in one of the more collectible categories. Having a lithograph that has a higher number, from one to fifty, will provide you a faster gain on your investment.

There are seven types of lithographs that each will have a different collector's value. The Open Edition lithograph is does not have a limited number of printings and is not numbered. The certificate is signed by the artist and can have a dramatically increased value if it contains a Remarque. A Remarque is an original sketch in pencil, ink, or paint that has been done by the author. It will normally be an object that is related to the picture you are purchasing.

When a Limited Edition is selected it will contain a certificate showing the number of prints that have been made as well as the number of the lithograph that you are purchasing. There will be a limited number in the series and after the printing, the plates for the lithograph are destroyed so that the pieces retain and grow in value for the collectors that purchase them. The certificates are signed by the artist and there is normally information on where the original piece of art is located.

The Master Edition is signed and numbered just as the Limited Edition, but the details in the print have been enhanced by the artist. In some cases, the artist will add a unique feature to the print that will make it an original piece that cannot be duplicated.

When aviation art lithographs are made for veterans, they have the special designation of Veteran Edition. These prints are signed and are restricted to a specific group of veterans. These prints are also not reprinted after the designated number has been printed.

Diplomats and museums are often provided lithographs that are exact replicas of an original piece. These lithographs are printed on canvas and have very find details hand painted by the artist. The pieces are numbered and signed. When the Presidential Proof is printed there may only be a few in a series before the plates are destroyed. - 30452

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