Lithograph By Niagara

An original lithograph is a print made by way of a specific printing method (one of the most commonly used methods in the 20th and 21st centuries). With respect to lithography, the process begins by drawing on or painting on a stone surface with an oil-based substance, such as a greasy crayon or tusche (an oily wash). The stone is then covered with water, which is repelled by the oily areas. Oil-based ink is then applied to the wet stone, adhering only to the oily image. The stone is then covered with a sheet of paper and run through a press.

A color lithograph is a print produced through the process of chromolithography. Unlike traditional lithography, which uses a single stone and one color of ink, chromolithography involves multiple printing stones, each of which corresponds to a single color. Artists etch the stones with only the elements of the image that will show up in that color, then transfer the image, part by part and color by color, onto paper. Find a range of color lithographs on 1stDibs.

Yes, there is a market for lithographs. However, demand for this type of artwork varies based on the artist, subject, age, condition and other factors. Fine art prints are created in strictly limited editions — of 20 or 30 or maybe 50 — and are always based on an image created specifically to be made into an edition. Because an artist’s editions tend to be more affordable and available than his or her unique works, new collectors are often directed toward prints as a starting point. Experts suggest that as collecting prints online has become more common, the market for lithographs and other kinds of prints is poised to flourish in the years to come. On 1stDibs, find a variety of lithographs and other prints from some of the world’s top galleries.

A genuine lithograph is when an artist creates a piece of art on a stone or metal plate that is re-inked every time the image is pressed to paper. To ensure you purchase authentic, high-quality lithographs, look for a reputable seller. Shop a selection of expertly vetted lithograph art on 1stDibs.

The most valuable lithographs are ones made by the artist, rather than someone mimicking a famous work of art. Original lithographs can be worth tens of thousands of dollars.

The difference between a lithograph and an etching is that while both are types of prints, they are made using different techniques. With respect to lithography, the image to be printed is drawn or painted on a stone or metal plate with an oil-based substance, such as a greasy crayon or tusche (an oily wash). The stone is then covered with water, which is repelled by the oily areas. Oil-based ink is then applied to the wet stone, adhering only to the oily image. Afterward, the stone is covered with a sheet of paper and run through a press.

Etching is a way of incising lines in a metal plate by first drawing on an acid-resistant coating, or ground, to reveal the metal beneath. The plate is then submerged in acid, which “bites” the lines into the metal plate. The ground is then removed and the plate is inked for pressing.

Find a collection of lithographs for sale on 1stDibs.

Yes, some lithographs are worth money. The maker, the subject and the age of the piece will largely determine its value. Other factors that affect valuations include the quality of the paper, how well the print was executed and the market demand for similar pieces. To get an estimate of the value of a particular lithograph, consult a certified appraiser or a knowledgeable dealer. Find a selection of lithographs on 1stDibs.

To tell a lithograph from an original, look for the signature. On originals, the signature will usually be on the back, while a lithograph will showcase the artist's mark on the front. On 1stDibs, shop a variety of lithographs from some of the world's top dealers.

A limited edition lithograph, or offset lithograph, is a mechanical reproduction of an existing artwork. The reproduction is usually not done by the artist themself, though sometimes might be signed by them after printing. You’ll find a variety of limited edition lithographs from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.

Yes, the famed artist Pierre-Auguste Renoir experimented with lithographs and etchings in the later part of his life. He made 59 of these prints with about half of them being lithographs. On 1stDibs, find a variety of original artwork from top artists.

There are a few things to look for in a vintage lithograph. First, check for a signature to determine the artist. Another check is to examine the print with a magnifying glass. There will be a dot pattern from the tooth of the surface it was drawn on. On 1stDibs, find a variety of vintage lithograph artwork from top artists.

On a lithograph, "EA" means épreuve d'artiste. It indicates that the lithograph was an artist's proof. The printmaker likely produced it for their own collection or to test the printing process. "EA" prints were not meant to be sold or distributed to the public. You'll find a wide selection of lithographs on 1stDibs.

The difference between a lithograph and a serigraph is the materials used to make the print. To make a lithograph, a printmaker uses ink, stone or metal plates and paper. Serigraph prints require a stencil, ink and fabric. Shop a variety of art prints on 1stDibs.