An edition of identical prints, numbered sequentially and individually signed by the artist, having a stated limit to the quantity in the edition. This is verified by the artist signature and a numerical listing (ie; 1/100) usually found toward to bottom on the front of the print. The numerical listing denotes two things; the top number designates the place in the sequence that the print exists, and the lower number is the total prints in the edition. In the example of 1/100, the number 1 means that this is the first print in the edition and the number 100 means that the edition contains 100 prints.
Artists generally use a non-reproducible pen or pencil to sign and number prints, silver or gold are often the choice. This protects the print from unauthorized duplication that can be easily detected on close examination, and better exposed when compared to the original signature.
Is a limited edition better than a signed un-numbered edition? This question can only be answered by the motives and needs of each individual collector. Some will only purchase limited prints, although a limited edition in the ten’s of thousands is questionable as to its’ exclusivity. Others do not care. My advice is that each piece of art that you purchase should speak to your heart, and that alone should be the only criteria for ownership.
Gail Niebrugge, Artist
