Considerations relating to the purchasing of prints

Print: A term describing a wide variety of techniques used to produce multiple copies of an original design. Also, the resulting text or image made by applying inked characters, plates, blocks, or stamps to a support such as paper or fabric (source: MOMA).  For an overview of the terminology and technics associated to "Prints", see, among others, the Masterwork Fine Arts page or  "11 Key Things to Know About Prints & Multiples" on Christie's website.   For an exhaustive inventory of expert tips on the subject, consult our page dedicated to this theme.​​

Hunter¹ provides a list of criteria to consider when acquiring a print.

Checklist for Buying Prints

• How many copies were made?  Is there more than one edition of this print?  The greater the number of copies, the fewer collectors have to compete to win it.   Comparable works with fewer copies will cost more.
• If it’s a fine art print, was it made or supervised by the artist?  Many posthumous prints are on the market.  Even if the artist’s estate has approved or commissioned posthumous prints, connoisseurs don’t consider them to be “by” the artist.   These prints are not as valuable as those made by the artist in person.
• If it is a print from a rare book, do you know for sure which edition it is from?  The difference can mean thousands of dollars.
• Is this work in a catalogue raisonné?   If so, does the print you are looking at match what’s in the catalogue raisonné in size, signature, watermark, and so on?
• Have you checked a price guide or database to see what a fair price is?  Remember, though, that dealers often charge a markup over auction houses prices, and for good reason.  They offer you more security than an auction purchase.
• Have you taken the print out of its frame and examined it for condition problems, such as tears, fading, stains, and improper trimming?
• Are you buying from a reputable source, such as a member of the International Fine Print Dealers Association?
• Do you love it?

¹Hunter, Lisa. The Intrepid Art Collector: The Beginner's Guide to Finding, Buying, and Appreciating Art on a Budget.  New York: Three Rivers Press, 2006.  p. 116.