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What is an Original Print?

A graphic or original print is the printed impression produced from a block, plate, stone or screen on which the artist who conceived the idea has worked.

Because the artist has chosen to render the idea in 'print', it is possible to produce a number of identical images, each one an original work by the artist. After the total number of prints in the edition has been 'pulled', the blocks, plates, stones or screens are defaced or recycled so that no further impressions may be taken.

In the past when great artists such as Durer and Rembrandt were working, the prints were unnumbered. In fact, it is only a modern convention to limit the edition, thus creating an increasing demand for the limited number and making them more desirable as an investment. There are many methods of making an original print, a few of which are explained in the next section - techniques.