What is a Print?

What is a Print?

Print, also called Reproductions, or Offset Prints because they are printed on offset printing machines, are not considered fine art prints because of the rapid deterioration of the picture (due to the unstable nature of offset inks), and are therefore priced accordingly (usually under $50).

Even if printed on high-quality paper, a poster can be expected to fade within 2 years. Since blue inks are more resistant to fading, whereas reds and yellows fade quickly, the picture will seem to acquire a bluish tint over time.

Although a poster may be printed as a signed and numbered limited edition, this does not add to its market resale value, which is virtually zero, except in the special case of rare vintage posters.

Since these posters are often mistakenly labeled as "prints" or "lithographs" (a real lithograph will usually sell for over $100), the purchaser must ascertain what method was used to print them.