Decorating a room with antique prints is very popular for many DIY home decorators. Mounting framed antique bird and fish prints is a simple way to enhance a “lodge” atmosphere in a log cottage or coastal home. Framing and mounting botanical prints, such as ferns, grasses and roses, can be a simple way to give your bathroom a soothing “green” atmosphere. Although millions create groupings of antique prints for decoration, all have to choose between acquiring antique reproduction prints, or original antique prints. While the dilemma is seldom debated among decorators and designers, the decision made yeilds consequences of essential importance.

Although some believe antique original prints possess a superior visual character quality that just can't be duplicated, many others aren't able to distinguish an antique original print from a parallel reproduced print. The discrepancy in opinions is primarily due to the physical condition of the individual original print. The quality of digital restoration and enhancement performed on a reproduction image prior to printing can also make a significant impact on how the two match up. On the other hand, some things, such as the look of aged paper, can't be reproduced. Up until the early 90's there was little question as to whether an original antique print looked more attractive than a reproduced print. It wasn’t until our current age of advanced computer-based technology that original antique prints were able to be scanned or photographed, enhanced, and printed with such astonishing quality and detail that the reproduciton prints rival the corresponding originals. In some situations, observers find reproductions to be visually sharper and more crisp than their original antique counterparts.

While the variety in comparisons can be draining, there are few who argue over the significant price difference. Antique original prints, with little exception, will be significantly more expensive, and, depending on each print, can be anywhere from 3-100 times (or more) the cost of a corresponding reproduction print. If many viewers would have a difficult time distinguishing between the two, one must wonder, is the cost difference really justifiable? It depends on who you are, what you’re looking for, and what you’re doing with it. For many do it yourself home decorators and DIY interior decorators, the answer is no (especially taking into accont that many will mount themed groupings in many rooms in their homes). Nevertheless, to some collectors of fine original antique art, the vintage originality of a work of art that has aged for hundreds of years is very appealing, and the cost is justified. Another aspect of antique originals is the investment value of some rare prints. Like any collectable, the values of antique original prints can grow in the long run. For those who desire collectability and value more than they do decor, this is surely worth considering. Still, for most decorators it is more cost efficient to look for quality reproduction prints that accomadate their individual needs.

Cost isn't the sole advantage to decorating with reproduction antique prints. They also offer flexibile options that assist in fitting a unique work of art into an already well decorated room. Finding a desired print available in 8"x10" to fit in a wall display grouping, when the original from which it came was a 5x7, is a luxury made possible only through reproduction. If trying to stay on a tight budget, search for publishers that offer prints in Standard-Sizes: (5x7 - 8x10 - 11x14). Because these sizes are often used, one can easily aquire affordable framing and matting materials. Although only some publishers offer these options, seeking out those who do may be an important element to giving a room the desired effect without compromising the established theme.
Joseph Borowy provides informative content from http://www.ChartingNature.com - Charting Nature is an online art retailer that specializes in custom antique art reproduction prints. Visit our Antique Prints page at http://www.ChartingNature.com/antique-prints.cfm to view our superb reproductions!