What is a Limited Edition Print (Lt. Ed)?

A reproduction of an original painting produced in an edition print, numbered sequentially and individually signed by the artist. The limited number of prints created, as well as the artist’s signature upon each yields a collectible piece of art.

The materials used in producing a limited edition are archival-quality. This is done to preserve the life of the print and prevent discoloration. The paper on which the image is printed is treated so that it is PH neutral (acid free) assuring the longevity of the print when properly framed and displayed. If the print is framed by the publisher, the hinge tape, matting and backing are all acid free.

What is an Artist Proof (A/P)?

Artist Proofs are an exclusive part of most all limited editions. They are identified by a hand written mark bearing the initial’s A/P. Typically, the artist retains these “proofs” and sells them as part of his/her compensation for creating the original work of art. As a general rule the total number of Artist Proofs in any edition is limited to only 10%. Therefore, in an edition of 5,000 signed and numbered prints it would be common to see 500 Artist Proofs.

Because the A/P edition is smaller and more exclusive they are more desirable to collectors. Artist Proofs are generally considered a status symbol in the art world and thusly the resale value is higher than the signed and numbered edition.

What is a Remarque (RQ)?

A Remarque can be defined two different ways as it applies to the world of art collecting.                      

1. The Remarque is a small drawing done by the artist on the lower portion of the print. A Remarque Edition is a cross between an original work of art and limited edition. Because of the hand drawing each print is considered unique.

2. A Remarque can be defined as the most exclusive and valuable part of any limited edition. They are identified by a special attribute unlike the signed and numbered or Artist Proof series. Visually, it is the same work of art however, the artist always hand-embellishes each Remarque. Sometimes, the Remarque edition prints are produced on a special paper or in rare circumstances actual canvas allowing the artist a substrate to add additional embellishments.

Remarque’s are the most exclusive part of any edition and always command the greatest price due to their rarity and unique character.

What does Hand Embellishment (H/E) mean?

Webster’s dictionary describes embellish as “1. To make beautiful by ornamentation: adorn.  2. To add fanciful details to.”  

When this term is applied to Michael’s limited edition lithographs, embellishment refers to painting over areas of the print to enhance color and/or adding brushstrokes to the finished print. A “Hand Embellished (H/E)” lithograph is considered the MOST valuable version of any print in the edition because it is part print and part original. Due to the fact that these additional “Embellishments” are done by hand no two are alike. (H/E) lithographs are the closest a collector can come to owning an original work of art for a fraction of the actual value of the original which, in the case of many of Michael’s paintings can run as high as $50,000

What is a Lithograph?

The majority of art prints produced are done so by means of a lithograph process. Limited edition lithographs are printed using museum-quality inks and archival paper, whereas open edition prints or posters, as they are commonly referred to, are typically not. Offset lithography is a specific type of printing process used to best capture the subtle brushstrokes and color variances in extremely detailed art. The printing presses that are used to produce limited edition lithographic prints can cost more than one million dollars and require numerous people to operate them many of which have earned the title “master printer” and are greatly respected in their field.

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