Print Proof Types
Proofs are prints authorized by the artist in addition to the limited signed and numbered edition. The total size of an art edition consists of the signed and numbered prints plus all outstanding proofs. If a set of proofs consists of more than one print, numbers are inscribed to indicate the number of the prints within the total number of the particular type of proof, (e.g., AP 5/20 means the fifth print in a set of twenty identical prints authorized as artist proofs). Proofs are generally signed by the artist as validation of the prints.
Artist’s Proof
Print intended for the artist’s personal use. It is common practice to reserve approximately ten percent of an edition as artist’s proofs, although this figure can be higher. The artist’s proof is sometimes referred to by it’s French épreuve d’artist (abbreviation E.A.). Artist’s proofs can be distinguished by the abbreviation AP or E.A., commonly on the lower left of the work.
Hors d’Commerce Proof – Print identical to the edition print intended to be used as samples to show to dealers and galleries. Hors d’Commerce (abbreviated to H.C.) proofs may or may not be signed by the artist.
Printer’s Proof – Print retained by the printer as a reference. Artists often sign these prints as a gesture of appreciation.
Abbreviations Used in Art
2nd ed – Second edition: prints of the same image as the original edition but altered in some way (as in change of color, paper or printing process).
AP – Artist’s Proof (see definition)
Del – (Latin, delineavit) He (she) drew it. Generally inscribed next to the artist’s signature.
E.A. – (French, épreuve d’artist) An artist’s proof (see definition)
Exc or Imp – (Latin, excudit) He(she) executed it. The meaning is synonymous with (Latin, impressit) he(she) printed it.
HC – (French, Hors d’Commerce) Prints from an edition intended to be used as samples to show to dealers and galleries.
Inc. or Sculp – (Latin, incidit) He(she) cut it. The meaning is synonymous with (Latin, impressit) he(she) carved it. These abbreviations refer to the individuals who engraved the master plate.
Inv. or Invent – (Latin, invenit) He(she) designed it. Generally inscribed next to the artist’s signature.
Lith. or Litho – “Lithographed By”. Usually follows the name of the printer of the lithograph.
Pinx. – (Latin, pinxit) He(she) painted it. Generally inscribed next to the artist’s signature.
PP – Printer’s proof (see definition)
TP – Trial proof