A/P is the designation used for an artist proof, or artist’s proof. These prints are made prior to the limited edition series. A/P is usually printed in the lower left hand corner and may be followed by a number.
History
Before modern printing practices, lithographers hand-pulled prints and the printing plate degraded with each subsequent print. The first productions were considered the most desirable, as they were the finest quality. These were usually given to the artist as payment for signing the lithographs, which would then be sold by the publisher.
Contemporary Art
Current technology ensures all prints are of the same quality; therefore an artist’s proof, or a later number in a limited edition series are identical. This applies to prints of artwork and fine art photography. Artist’s proofs are not technically necessary today, however the tradition still holds.
Value
Hand-pulled artist’s proofs are considered more valuable than the limited edition series, because they are of better quality and are the property of the artist. Artist’s proofs usually number 10 percent or less of an edition and this also increases the value. The art world is polarized as to whether photographic artist proofs or those made with modern printing techniques are as valuable. Collectors should look for proofs signed by the artist.
Writer Bio
Pamela Stewart began writing in 1994. Her articles have appeared in North American newspapers and magazines such as "Now Magazine" and the "Georgina Advocate." Stewart has written for educational publications such as the "American Society for Industrial Security Protection of Assets Manual.” Her first book of fiction was published in 2008. She studied creative writing at Ryerson University.
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