A Limited Edition Art Print is a reproduction of an original painting, drawing or other two-dimensional piece of art work. "Limited Edition" refers to a set number of replicas of a work of art. Each reproduction is then signed and numbered by the Artist for authenticity.

The practice of limiting editions and numbering proofs dates back to early printing techniques -- when the quality of the printed images declined as the printer plates began to show evidence of wear. By limiting an edition to the best examples of an artist's work, the artist protected both his or her artistic integrity and the value of the work to the potential collector. Printing methods have since advanced considerably and editions are now often limited for financial reasons. By ensuring the relative rarity of the artist's work, he or she increases its value. (Two- dimensional reproductions are often referred to as prints, and the terms will be used here interchangeably. This is not to be confused with the "original print- making" process where the artist actually hand-creates each print.)

In addition to a fixed number of edition prints, there may also exist "AP" prints and "HC" prints. AP prints refer to Artist Proofs. Artist Proofs also date back to early printing methods. These were the first images off the press -- used to determine ink coverage and general quality. As they were the first pieces to be printed, they were traditionally considered to be more valuable. AP prints are signed and numbered separately from the main edition. HC prints, or Hors De Commerce (not for trade) prints, are marked by the artist as prints to be used for business practice: such as samples, display only, etc. Occasionally there are also PP or Printers Proofs. These refer to the very few proofs which are given to the printer responsible for printing the work.

Since Signed Limited Edition Prints have inherent value, but tend to cost much less than original works of art, they make great gifts!

Artist and Graphic Designer Kelli Swan specializes in black and white Pencil Drawings and Graphic Design Services. Her artwork is available through pencilplace.com She also has many Horse Lover Gifts and Dog Lover Gifts in her online Store: cafepress.com/ kelliswan Kelli's Graphic Design Services are listed at http://www.cygnetgraphics.com She offers her Gift Ideas through animallovergiftplace.com

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