Get a Lithograph Appraised
Lithographs became popular at the beginning of the 19th century. A lithograph is created by drawing on a stone, which is then used to print an image. Lithographs were popular with artists because drawing an illustration on stone was much like drawing on paper. While beauty may be in the eye of the beholder, the value of a lithograph depends on a number of factors. Finding the worth of your print is a matter of doing some of your own research and also consulting an expert.
Instructions
1. Consult auction results. Seeing past auction results for works by the same artist can give you an estimate of the value of your lithograph. This estimate will tell you if it is worthwhile spending the money to hire a professional to give a written assessment of the value of your piece. Internet resources such as AskART and Artprice.com provide up-to-date completed auction results. In order to access the final prices on pieces, you must pay a fee to become a member of these sites. A reference work such as "Davenport's Art Reference & Price Guide" is another good option to see prices realized at auction. Check your local library to see if it carries this title in its reference section.
2. Hire an expert. A professional appraiser can look at your lithograph and tell you what it is worth based on its artist, age and condition. One avenue for finding an art appraisal expert is to ask at your local museum for a recommendation. You can also find appraisers through the American Society of Appraisers or the International Society of Appraisers.
3. Consider online appraisals. There are many online appraisal options available that will tell you how much your lithograph is worth on the open market or for insurance purposes. Art Services 2000 Ltd., a member of the International Society of Appraisers, will provide a free preliminary valuation and then charge a fee for a more extensive appraisal. WhatsItWorthToYou.com charges $9.95 for a fast online appraisal.
4. Go to an appraisal fair. Many art and antiques stores will hold appraisal fairs where they bring in an expert and charge a nominal fee for an on-the-spot appraisal. Consult local antiques store owners to see if this service is offered in your area. If you want to get an appraisal and possibly end up on television, find out from the PBS Web site where this year's "Antiques Roadshow" episodes are being taped and if you can get tickets when they pass through your area.
