How to Identify Prints: A Complete Guide to Manual and Mechanical Processes from Woodcut to Ink Jet (Hardcover)

~ (Author)

Editorial Reviews

From Library Journal

Exquisitely presented and profusely illustrated, this book carries the reader through some technical vocabulary and a "Sherlock Holmes" approach to an ability to identify techniques used in graphic images from the invention of the printing press to high technology. The detective approach provides a dimension not normally found in works of art history or graphic arts production. Monochrome and color prints are covered, and variations in relief, intaglio, and planographic prints are thoroughly discussed. There is also a glossary and bibliography. This is a great reference considering the recent interest in art, old photographs, prints, and in collecting and investing in fine art. William A. McIntyre, New Hampshire Vocational-Technical Coll. Lib., Nashua
Copyright 1986 Reed Business Information, Inc.

Product Description

A comprehensive reference work for print and art collectors, dealers in prints and illustrated books and people interested in graphic art with no previous knowledge on the subject. It was the result of Bamber Gascoigne's own early experiences in trying to discover which print was what. Looking for precise guidance on problems of identification, he found that there was no book specifically designed to answer that need - so he wrote it. Organized in a series of self-contained sections, the book takes you through both the manual and the mechanical methods of printmaking, with 90 techniques discussed in all, both monochrome and colour. Many illustrations of enlarged details showing the different appearance of variuos techniques under strong magnification are included and examples are given of the identifying features which will help to reveal the type of print, such as varieties of line and tone and details of how the ink lies. A glossary-index provides brief definitions of a wide range of terms and phrases.

Product Details

• Hardcover: 208 pages
• Publisher: Thames & Hudson (September 1995)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 050023454X
• ISBN-13: 978-0500234549
• Product Dimensions: 10.2 x 9.2 x 1 inches
• Shipping Weight: 2.6 pounds
• Average Customer Review: 5.0 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (1 customer review)
• Amazon.com Sales Rank: #874,076 in Books (See Bestsellers in Books)

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

10 of 10 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars How To Identify Prints, December 6, 2000

A Kid's Review

As a museum professional and print cataloguer, this book has proved to be an invaluable resourse for identifying myriad print techniques. It is an excellent tool for identifying dates of printing as well. The author describes each printing processes in minute detail, and also provides very good illustrations which are very helpful. As a print connoseur and collector I call this my print-medium bible.