Art print faq

LE...Limited Edition Prints

A fixed number of identical prints of an image, signed by the artist, sequentially numbered, and showing both the print's number and the total edition size.  Each print is referred to as a "limited edition print". 

AP...Artist Proof Prints
Common practice is that 10 to 15 percent of an edition is reserved for the artist.  These proofs are identical to impressions in the edition yet are often considered more valuable.

HC...Hors de Commerce
A small artist edition of equal quality, originally used for promotion.

Open Edition
The quantity of prints reproduced is not limited.  As long as the image is in demand, it will be printed.

Giclée
Giclée (jhee-clay) is a French word meaning "spraying of paint."  The word is used to describe prints produced by a high definition inkjet printer. Giclées use digital technology to enhance and preserve the character of the artists's original.  The printing is done with costly pigment based archival inks printed on museum quality canvas or rag paper.  The result is an image that rivals the beauty of the original. Giclées are found in most major art museums and fine art galleries, validating this new form of art.  

Lithograph
A photographic printing technique that uses inks, carried by rubber rollers called printing blankets, to transfer images from metal plates to paper.  Limited edition offset lithographs are printed on high-quality, acid-free paper and printed with the highest quality fade-resistant inks.