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

Antique prints are a great way to spice up a room. Hanging framed antique fish prints and bird prints is a popular way to embellish a lodge-style atmosphere in a country cabin or vacation home. Creating groupings of botanical prints, such as fruits, grasses and roses, can be an easy way to give your kitchen a soothing and calming nature atmosphere. Although millions frame and mount antique prints for decoration, all are faced with the inescapable decision of choosing to seek out antique originals, or opting for antique reproduced prints. Although the question itself is seldom debated by designers and decorators, the decision made has significant consequences.

Although some claim that antique original prints have a superior visual character quality that can't be reproduced, many other observers aren't able to differentiate an antique original from an alike reproduction print. This discrepancy mostly depends on the condition of a given original print. The amount of digital restoration and enhancement performed on a reproduction image can also make a significant impact on how the two match up to one another. But some things, such as the appearance of aged and faded paper, just can't be reproduced in entirety. Up until the early 90's there was virtually no question as to whether an antique original was visually more attractive than a corresponding reproduction print. It wasn’t until the current era of computer technology that antique originals were scanned or photographed, digitally enhanced, and printed with such superb quality and detail that the reproduciton prints rival their origins. On some occasions, spectators report antique reproduction prints to be visually more appealing than the original antique prints they were sourced from.

Regardless of personal perspective on the comparison of looks, there is little argument on the cost factor. Original prints are substantially more expensive. With this in mind, is the price difference justified? It really depends on what you are trying to accomplish. For many home decorators and do it yourself interior decorators, the answer is no. However, to collectors of fine antiques, the vintage originality of a work of art that is several hundred years old is extremely appealing, and the price is justifiable. Another often forgotten aspect of original antique prints is the investment value of some rare prints. Like many collectable items, the values of antique original prints can appreciate over time. For those who seek collectability and value more than they do decor, this is worth considering. Still, for most decorators it is much more cost effective to seek quality reproduction prints that accomadate their individual needs and preferences.

Cost isn't the only advantage to decorating with reproduction antique prints. They also offer customized options that help fit a unique piece of art into an already well-decorated room. If on a tight budget, seek publishers that print in standard-sizes: (5x7 - 8x10 - 11x14). Because these sizes are widely used, one can easily seek out low cost frames. The ability to order a print in Black & White or Sepia is also a decorating advantage. While not all publishers offer these options, investigating those who do may be an important factor to spicing up a room with the desired effect without compromising the established theme.