Tips when Buying an Antique Print

When buying an antique print it's a good idea to keep a few things in mind. First of all try to make sure the print being offered is antique. On my many missions to dealers and fairs I've heard "yes it is old", .....but is it antique? The definition of "antique" is that the object is at least 100 years old. So ask. It's worth asking a direct question, .."is the print over 100 years old". Ask the dealer for a written guarantee of age and authenticity and ensure that you may return the print if it later turns out to be a reproduction or not as described. If he is unwilling to give a written guarantee then be cautious.

Inspect the print carefully for damage if there is damage make sure the repairs have been carried out properly with the correct materials e.g. acid free tape. Some prints over the years have been cut down to fit frames this will generally affect the price. If the print is framed or is matted check that too as the materials used may not be acid free and could harm the print in the long term and ask to inspect the print out of the frame. Frames and matting can cover a potential problem.

There are many types of prints for example copperplate, lithographic, steel plate amongst others. It's worth the effort to do a little research into the history of printing techniques. Many prints such as botanical prints have been hand colored a technique used before the introduction of more modern methods of color printing. There are many hand colored antique prints available, some hand colored later either to "strengthen" the colors or to add colors where there were none. Look on the reverse side of the print and generally, but not always the original colors applied would have over the years "seeped" through to the back. -another reason to examine prints out of their frames. Period hand coloring or later hand coloring will generally have an effect on the value.

Not everyone has the same amount of money to spend, but when choosing an antique print or map it's always best to buy the best quality you can afford. There are prints available for as little as $20 and you can pay as much as $50 000 -it does not necessarily mean the print of $20 is "no good" as the pricing of antiques in general depends on many criteria.

These a just a few of the points you should bear in mind when buying an antique print or map. A great deal comes with experience and it's a joy building up that experience and learning about antique prints.

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