How Do You Determine the Value of Lithographs?
A lithograph is a print authorized by an artist or agent using a printing process that creates a drawing on a flat surface, often stone. Lithographs are either produced manually with a waxy pencil or by a machine. According to Smithsonian American Art Museum, the best methods of determining the value of a lithograph and other artwork include consulting price guides, contacting appraisers or going directly to auction houses.
Because lithographs are prints rather than original pieces of art, not all price guides contain pricing information regarding their value. Printed and online price guides typically include values for either original pieces of art or reproductions, but often do not contain information concerning both. Gordon’s Print Price Annual is one resource to find the value of prints such as lithographs, notes LTB Gordon’s Art.
Appraisers are an excellent resource for determining the value of a lithograph. When seeking a professional appraiser, it is important to remember to find an expert. There is a fee for this service. Auction houses also offer information regarding how to determine the value of a lithograph. Many auction houses accept photo submissions via mail or even host free events where visitors can bring in lithographs and other artwork to be valued by experts, according to Smithsonian American Art Museum.
