| The following is an actual listing on an online auction | | | | lithograph, not an original. There is no such thing as an |
| site that shall remain nameless, although it rhymes with | | | | original lithograph because it is a copy of something |
| me-say. Anyway, the following posting under "art for | | | | that was an original at one time. The fact that the |
| sale" is reprinted here without any alteration: | | | | description states it was made "after a cut out and |
| (TITLE) "RARE 1950 Matisse Original Lithograph | | | | gouache" proves my point. That was the first state or |
| Signed ZULMA Fr" | | | | original artwork, most probably made from cut-outs of |
| (DESCRIPTION) "Artist: Henri Matisse (French, | | | | paper and paint, in this case gouache. |
| 1869-1954) | | | | Did you also notice it was "signed in the plate?" That |
| Title: Zulma, 1950 Medium: Authentic Color lithograph | | | | means that it was not signed by the artist, other than |
| after a cut-out and gouache Publisher: Teriade with | | | | on the gouache artwork it was reproduced from. So, |
| lithography by Mourlot Signature: This lithograph is | | | | how can they say that it is not a reprint? Of course it |
| signed and dated in the plate, lower right. As issued. | | | | is. We also have no idea how many 1000's of other |
| Dimensions: This lithograph is framed in a solid wood | | | | lithographs were made. So much for a rare Matisse. |
| framed and measures c. 17 x 23 inches. You Can | | | | The "buy-it-now" cost is $499. I guess that the nice |
| Own this incredible Lithograph for much less than you | | | | frame maybe worth most of the price. Finally, a large |
| would find it for in the gallery. If you are a Henri | | | | part of the remaining page talks about the printing |
| Matisse fan - then please don't miss out. THIS IS NOT | | | | process and the artist. |
| A REPRINT, POSTER OR AN OFFSET BUT AN | | | | What have you learned form this example? Perhaps |
| ORIGINAL COLOR LITHOGRAPH AFTER A CUT | | | | that all is not as it seems. Beware of copy that is full |
| OUT AND GOUACHE. You will receive a copy of the | | | | of terms like, "rare, original, and signed in the plate." Also |
| original justification page for this suite, showing publisher, | | | | watch for out for very low prices and a total lack of |
| year published... Authenticity 100 percent guaranteed." | | | | paperwork in some instances. That's not to say there |
| (end of description) | | | | aren't terrific deals online, but you need to do your due |
| This is an excellent example of a real piece that may | | | | diligence and research first so that you don't get taken |
| or may not be what it seems. Yes, it is a print by | | | | to the cleaners. I'll have other examples in future |
| Matisse, according to the dealer. But what about it's | | | | articles, but for now, class dismissed. |
| rarity, as stated in the title? To begin with, it's a | | | | |