Kentish Express Ashford & District - What's On
It’s not just original artwork that’s worth collecting
There are many who believe that only original artworks are worth collecting, and yet the truth is that some reproductions can also have a value.
Take prints, for example. There is a growing market for good quality prints, and plenty of choice in terms of subject matter and style to satisfy even the most fussy collector.
There are some prints by wellknown artists that a few years ago would fetch around £150, which recently are touching the £2,000 mark.
As with paintings themselves, subject matter is important. Nautical subjects and landscapes are popular.
Most people buy prints to display, not as investments to hide away as can happen with some paintings.
Avoid dark or depressing subjects. These might have been fashionable once, but are hard to sell nowadays. Look out for prints that have a pencil signature, as that is important, as well as a ‘blind stamp’.
This is reverse embossed stamp (meaning that it is sunken rather than raised) that indicates the provenance and authenticity of the print. They are usually found below the bottom corners of the picture and were first used in 1838 when the Guild of Printsellers was set up.
The stamps were not part of the printing process. They were added afterwards, usually by hand, which means that their precise placement can vary slightly. Consider the original use too. Many, of course, were reproductions of old masters, or other sought after works.
But there were also many that were designed more as illustrations to be distributed for reference or research, such Audubon’s natural history prints of birds and animals.
As I’ve said before, though, I would suggest you always buy items that you like personally, as well making sure they are good quality.
At least that way, if you can’t sell them, you will have a pleasing piece of art for your wall.
More on Clive Attrell at freeantiquesvaluations.com