At our gallery, we're constantly asked to appraise what folks believe to be valuable lithographs. Sometimes however, they turn out to be offset prints, causing disappointment and confusion. Today, we’re diving into the fascinating world of lithographs versus offset lithographs. By the end, you’ll be an expert in telling them apart. Trust us, you won’t want to miss this!
Let’s start with the basics.
Lithographic prints have a rich history dating back to the late 18th century. The process involves creating an image on a stone or metal plate with a grease-based medium. This process is usually done by the artist himself or by someone from his workshop under their strict supervision. The stone or plate is then turned over to a specialized art printer, for it to be treated with a chemical solution that ensures the image will attract ink, while the non-image areas repel it. Each color in the print is applied using a separate stone or plate, making the process labor-intensive but yielding stunning, vibrant results. At the end of this process, the finished prints are inspected, numbered, dated and signed by the artist in pencil, and the plates destroyed in the case of the more sought after, limited editions.
Offset lithographs, on the other hand, are a more modern invention. This technique involves transferring an image onto a rubber blanket from a printing plate and then onto the paper. This is the process that modern home printers operate. The process is rarely supervised by the original artist. Offset printing allows for high-volume production, making it cost-effective but often less valuable than traditional lithographs. The result is a print much like the ones you see on commercial posters. Offset lithographs may be signed in some cases, but the print run is often much larger, diminishing their rarity and value.
So, how can you tell the difference?
Examine the texture
Lithographic prints often have a more textured surface due to the direct contact between the stone or metal plate and the paper. They have a tactile quality, with visible brushstrokes and color variations. Offset lithographs, however, often appear flat. They tend to have a smoother finish, lacking the depth and texture of a hand-pulled lithograph.
Look for variations
Lithographic prints can have subtle variations between each print due to the artist's adjustments to the plate. Offset lithographs are more likely to be completely identical.
Determine the type of paper used
Lithographic prints are often printed on heavy wove cotton paper, while offsets are usually made on flat and thin bond or glossy paper.
Check the edition size
Lithographic prints typically have smaller edition sizes, and are usually numbered, while offset lithographs can be produced in much larger quantities.
Spot the pixels
Another way to spot an offset is to look at it through a magnifying glass or a microscope. If the print is an offset, you will be able to see the pixels from the image transfer which is a quick tell to spot mass produced prints. Lithographic prints will have strokes of paint instead of pixels.
The Art of Observation
Art prints are an intricate dance between technique and creativity. The joy of collecting art lies not only in owning beautiful pieces but also in understanding the craftsmanship and techniques that went into their creation. By taking the time to examine these details, you can develop a keen eye for spotting the differences between lithographic prints and offset lithographs. Next time you encounter a print, take a closer look—discover the nuances that make each piece unique, and cherish the stories they tell.
Enjoy your journey through the world of art, and keep discovering the beautiful layers that lie beneath each masterpiece!
