Tips for Buying Vintage Art Reprints
Buying vintage reprints online can feel risky. Prints may arrive with issues such as fading, discoloration, or damage, while others might have been poorly restored. Both unretouched images and inadequate restorations can compromise the artwork's aesthetics and diminish its original intent. Here’s what to consider when buying a print to ensure you get a quality piece.
Historical Integrity
Historical integrity means enhancing the original intent without altering it. Over time, unrestored prints often suffer from fading and discoloration due to exposure to light, humidity, and other environmental factors, which can distort the original colors and overall appearance. A thoughtful restoration can bring the artwork closer to its original look while preserving its historical integrity.
Tips
- Look for signs of natural aging, like yellowing or browning, which indicate the print has not been restored.
- Inspect close-up views for tears, creases, or blemishes that reveal the print's age and authenticity.
- Zoom in to check that details are sharp and not blurry, as this can indicate quality.
Color Accuracy
Accurate color restoration is essential because original colors were chosen by the artist to convey specific emotions, themes, and messages. Overly bright or inaccurately restored colors can alter the integrity, mood, and meaning of the artwork. For example, a piece meant to evoke a somber or serene feeling could lose its impact if restored with overly vibrant colors.
Tips
- Look for odd or inconsistent colors, bright whites, or overly saturated hues.
- Compare colors to other known versions of the print to ensure accuracy.
Typography
In many old prints, text can become blurred, faded, or otherwise unclear. Accurate restoration of typography is crucial for readability and for preserving the historical context of the print. Typography in older prints often carries significant stylistic and informational value, reflecting the design trends and printing technologies of the time.
Tips
- Zoom in on the text to see if the typography is clear and readable.
Period Authenticity
Each period in art history has its own distinct palette and stylistic elements. Even small changes—like altering colors, frames, or matting—can disrupt an artwork’s historical integrity. For example, tones unique to certain eras may be lost if color correction is applied incorrectly or skipped. Restoring prints with a thoughtful understanding of historical context preserves their authentic look and feel, ensuring they stay true to their time.
Tips
- Look for period-specific tones (e.g., earthy for older periods) and avoid overly modern hues.
- Ensure original proportions are preserved; cropping or stretching can signal alteration.
- Choose frames and mats that match the period’s style (e.g., ornate gold frames for Victorian pieces).
Historical prints are not just decorative items; they are cultural artifacts that carry the heritage and values of their time. Each detail, from color to typography, contributes to the overall narrative and significance of the piece.
