Decorating with Antique Art Prints: Original Antique Prints or Reproduction Antique Prints

Antique prints are a popular way to decorate a room. Adding framed antique fish prints and bird prints is a simple way to enhance a lodge-style feel in a log cabin or vacation house. Creating groupings of antique botanical prints, such as fruits, grasses and orchids, is a simple but effective way to create a calming, soothing "nature" feel in a bathroom. While millions hang groupings of antique prints for decoration, all face the unavoidable decision of choosing to seek out antique originals, or opting for antique reproduction prints. While the predicament itself is hardly debated by interior decorators, the choice brings implications of potentially vital influence.

Although some observers state that antique original prints have a discernable character quality that simply can't be reproduced, many are unable to distinguish an antique original print from an alike reproduction print. The discrepancy of opinion is usually the result of the physical condition of any given original print. When reproducing antique prints digital editing software can be utilized to return quality and detail. On the other hand, some things, such as the anitque look of worn and aged paper, can't fully be reproduced. Until the early 90's there was almost no question as to whether an antique original print looked more attractive than a reproduction antique print. It wasn’t until our current age of advanced computer-based technology that antique prints were able to be scanned (either by digital scanner or camera), digitally enhanced, and printed with such incredible quality that the reproductions rival the original sources they were derived from.

Regardless of an individual perspective on how looks factor into the equation, there is no debate on the cost factor. Antique original prints, with very little exception, will be overwhelmingly more expensive. With this in mind, is the price truly justified? Well, it depends on who you are. For most professional interior designers and DIY home decorators, the answer is no (especially since many will mount groupings in several rooms of their homes). However, to some collectors of antiques, the vintage originality of a print that dates back several hundred years is very desirable. There is also something to be said about the investment value of select rare antique prints. Like many collectables, the values of antique originals can potentially grow in the long run. For those who desire value just as much or more than they do decoration, this is something to take into consideration. Still, for a large portion of interior decorators it is more cost efficient to hunt for quality reproduction prints that accomadate their individual preferences and needs.

Lower price isn't the only benefit to decorating with reproduction antique prints. They also provide flexibility and customization options that help fit a piece of art into an already well-decorated room. If on a tight budget, look for publishers that offer prints in Standard Sizes- (5x7 - 8x10 - and 11x14). Because these sizes are commonly used, one can easily seek out affordable frames. While only a few publishers offer these options, seeking out those who do may be an essential element to adding desired effect without compromising the established theme.

By: Joseph Borowy

Joseph Borowy authors articles for www.ChartingNature.com - Visit our Antique Prints page at www.ChartingNature.com/antique-prints.cfm to view our unique reproductions!

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