Is the edition number important for quality and value?

L.S. Lowry

R.B.A., R.A.
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The 54 signed limited edition titles have been produced using photo lithography
ie. When published, each one is absolutely identical
There is no difference in quality or value in any particular number
It has to be said however, that the most important point, is how the work has been looked after over the last 40-50 years
Due to the inks and paper used, some titles are more susceptible to fading from the UV in sunlight than others
This process is irreversible

Original etchings and old silkscreen prints produced by hand have created the idea that some work ie. low numbers in the edition are more valuable
This is due to the printing process where the plates are inked, and it is suggested that earlier numbers could be slightly clearer than the later ones.
Some sales people can unwittingly confuse a client by implying one number of a photo litho is better or more valuable than another
This is completely incorrect.

Conservation framing and 'museum' UV blocking glass was rarely in the 1960's and '70's
Prints were often attached to the mount with sellotape (not acid free tape used frequently today)
The print was often stuck onto board using glue and a heat press
Its life from publication to the present day is the most important factor of any print
If it has survived the last 50 years and is in good condition with strong original vibrant colours
then it will probably be fine for the next 50 years, as long as it is kept away from strong sunlight and damp
Normal 2mm. picture glass cuts down UV by 50%, so with double glazing it is generally quite safe
UV blocking glass is not too (bearing in mind the cost of your investment), so if you wish to be 100% safe, it is a good option
Museum glass cuts most of the UV and has non-reflective properties too
This gives a superb effect, but comes at a cost.
Museum glass for a good sized picture could be £200-300

The number of prints in the edition, does have a bearing on value to a certain extent... However...!
This has to be weighed against the subject matter
'The Cart' 850 edition will always be more valuable and sought after than 'The Lowrys' 300 edition for example

Please take a moment to visit the paintings and signed prints of wildlife artist, David Shepherd
The incredibly subtle work of William Russell Flint whose paintings and signed prints are regarded as some of the finest watercolours in the world.
A lifetime dedicated to the pursuit of artistic perfection in watercolour.
r See a large collection of Sir William's original paintings and his published signed limited editions.
The work is becoming rarer and difficult to find in good condition due to age, these items have become most sought after and collectable.
Well known for his portraits of Cecilia Green, Russell Flint's greastest paintings illustrate the architecture and landscape throughout parts of rural France
Of particular importance is the work of Mr L.S. Lowry it has become of great artistic and financial merit in recent years. A wide selection of his prints and paintings can be viewed at this website
Ironically, I understand that he holds the record for declining the most honours; Harold Wilson, the prime minister at the time, offered him a knighthood.
Our aim is to offer our clients an excellent service at unbeatable prices.