Birds In ArtDevoted to Birds in Artwork

Antique prints are a wonderful way to decorate a room. Mounting antique fish and bird prints is a warming way to add a “lodge” feel in a cottage or beach house. Framing and mounting antique botanicals, such as ferns, trees and roses, can be a simple way to enhance a soothing and calming “green” atmosphere in a bedroom. Although millions decorate with antique prints, all are faced with the inescapable decision of choosing to decorate with original antique prints, or opting to find antique reproduction prints. Although the question is seldom debated among decorators and designers, the decision made has important implications.

Although some claim that antique original prints possess a surperb character quality that simply cannot be duplicated, many other observers aren’t able to distinguish an original print from a parallel reproduced print. The discrepancy of opinion is usually a product of the physical condition of the original. The amount and quality of digital restoration and enhancement performed on a reproduction image can also make an impact on how the two compare. But some things, such as the anitque look of worn and aged paper, just cannot accurately be reproduced. Up until the early 1990′s there was little question as to whether an original antique was visually superior than the corresponding reproduced print. It wasn’t until our current age of sophisticated computer technology that original antique prints were scanned (either by digital scanner or camera), digitally restored, and reprinted with such astounding detail that the reproductions rival the original sources. In many cases, spectators have found reproductions to be visually sharper and more crisp than the antique prints from which they were sourced.

Though the vareity of opinions on the matter can seem endless, there are few who argue on the significant price difference. Antique original prints, with few exceptions, will be substantially more expensive. With this in mind, many ponder this question – if many observers would have a hard time distinguishing between the two, one must wonder, is the price really justifiable? It really all depends on what you are trying to accomplish. For many do-it-yourself home decorators and do it yourself interior decorators, the answer is no (especially since many will hang groupings in several rooms of their homes). Even so, to some collectors of fine antique originals, the vintage originality of a print that has aged for hundreds of years is very appealing, making the cost totally justified. Another often overlooked aspect of antique originals is the investment value of some rare prints. Like many collectables, the values of antique originals can grow in the long run. This is surely something to consider for those who seek value just as much or more than they do decor. Still, for a large portion of home decorators it is more cost effective to look for quality reproduction prints.

Lower cost is not the sole advantage to decorating with reproduction antique prints. They also offer flexibile options that help fit a work of art into an already well-decorated room. Some print reproduction companies will offer prints in an assortment of size, matting, and framing choices. If trying to stay on a budget, search for publishers that print in Standard Sizes- (5″x7″, 8″x10″, 11″x14″). Because these sizes are widely used, one can seek out cost efficient framing materials. The ability to order a print in Black & White or Sepia is also a decorating advantage. Although only some publishers offer these options, seeking out those who do may be an important element to adding desired effect without compromising the established layout.