Print Proof Types
Proofs are prints authorized by the artist in addition to the limited signed and numbered
edition. The total size of an art edition consists of the signed and numbered prints plus all
outstanding proofs. If a set of proofs consists of more than one print, numbers are inscribed to
indicate the number of the prints within the total number of the particular type of proof, (e.g.,
AP 5/20 means the fifth print in a set of twenty identical prints authorized as artist proofs).
Proofs are generally signed by the artist as validation of the prints.
Artist's Proof (AP) - Print intended for the artist's personal use. It is common practice to
reserve approximately ten percent of an edition as artist's proofs, although this figure can be
higher. The artist's proof is sometimes referred to by its French épreuve d'artist (abbreviation
E.A.). Artist's proofs can be distinguished by the abbreviation AP or E.A., commonly on the
lower left of the work.
Cancellation Proof - Final print made once an edition series has been finished to show that
the plate has been marred/mutilated by the artist, and will never be used again to make more
prints of the edition.
Hors d'Commerce Proof (HC) - Print identical to the edition print intended to be used as
samples to show to dealers and galleries. These proofs may or may not be signed by the artist.
Printer's Proof (PP) - Print retained by the printer as a reference. Artists often sign these
prints as a gesture of appreciation.
Trial Proof (TP) - Pre-cursor to a limited edition series, these initial prints are pulled so that
the artist may examine, refine and perfect the prints to the desired final state. Trial proofs are
generally not signed.
Abbreviations Used in Art
2nd Ed - Second edition: prints of the same image as the original edition but altered in some
way (as in change of color, paper or printing process).
2nd st - Second state: prints of proofs which contain significant changes from the original print.
AP - Artist's Proof (see definition)
Del - (Latin, delineavit) He (she) drew it. Generally inscribed next to the artist's signature.
HC - (French, Hors d'Commerce) Prints from an edition intended to be used as samples to
show to dealers and galleries.
PP - Printer's proof (see definition)
TP - Trial proof (see definition)