As you create your personal art collection, adding original pieces is critical. The mastery and skill used to create these pieces are what draws you in, but sometimes the price of original pieces can be a shock to the system.
Luckily, there is a way to add originals to your collection without the hefty price tag. Lithographs are a more affordable option to add that unique piece without going over budget.
So What Exactly Is a Lithograph?
Lithographs are prints created by making use of the fact that grease and water are immiscible, or they don’t mix. An artist uses a greasy pencil or litho crayon to draw directly onto a stone or metal plate. The artist prepares a separate stone or plate for each color in the finished lithograph. The plate is then treated with a chemical, etching the surface where the greasy pencil wasn’t used. When moisture is applied to the plate or stone, the etched areas retain the moisture, allowing oil-based ink to be applied and only stick to the drawing. The ink is then transferred to paper, creating a one-of-a-kind lithograph. Because it isn’t possible to register each color perfectly, the final result is a unique print with subtle differences between each one produced.
But Won’t All of the Copies Look The Same?
Not exactly. Each lithograph has minute differences based on the application of the ink for each run.
Are Lithographs Original Pieces?
Without a doubt, yes. When you purchase a lithograph from a trusted art dealer, you can be sure you are getting an original piece. The artist will draw directly onto the plate used to create the lithograph, then approve and sign each one. There are limited quantities made, which makes them even more valuable.
If you are looking for the perfect piece to begin, or add to, your own collection, visit our GALLERY. We have beautiful, original lithographs by Raymond Loewy and several other artists.
