An Artist's Proof is a rare version of a limited edition print produced during the same print run as the standard edition. It is printed on the same paper, signed by the artist, and features identical artwork, but is marked "A/P" rather than carrying a standard edition number. Because Artist's Proofs were issued in smaller quantities, they are often more desirable to collectors.
If you've ever seen a Jack Vettriano print marked "A/P" instead of a standard edition number, you've found an Artist's Proof.
Artist's Proofs are special versions of a Limited Edition print that were traditionally retained by the artist during the printing process. While the image, paper and print quality are identical to the standard edition, Artist's Proofs were produced in much smaller quantities, making them highly sought after by collectors.
Today, they remain one of the most desirable ways to own a Jack Vettriano print.
Quick Answer
An Artist's Proof is a print produced during the same print run as the main Limited Edition but issued in smaller numbers and marked "A/P" rather than carrying a standard edition number.
Artist's Proofs are printed to exactly the same quality as the Limited Edition. Their appeal comes from their rarity and their historical connection to the artist.
How Did Artist's Proofs Originate?
Traditionally, when a Limited Edition print was being produced, the artist would review the early proofs coming off the printing press.
The artist would check colour accuracy, image quality and overall consistency before approving the final edition.
Once approved, a small number of these proofs would be retained by the artist and kept separate from the main numbered edition. These became known as Artist's Proofs.
Modern fine art printing techniques mean there is now no difference in quality between an Artist's Proof and a Limited Edition print, but the designation and tradition remain.
How is an Artist's Proof Different from a Limited Edition Print?
Artist's Proofs and Limited Editions are produced from the same artwork and to the same production standards. The differences lie in their designation and scarcity.
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There is no difference in image quality. For many collectors, the appeal of an Artist's Proof is simply that fewer were produced.
How Are Artist's Proofs Numbered?
Artist's Proofs should always be clearly marked "Artist's Proof" or "A/P".
For most Jack Vettriano editions, the artist signed the print in pencil on the lower right-hand side of the border and marked the proof designation on the lower left-hand side.
Some Artist's Proofs are simply marked A/P, while many are individually numbered using Roman numerals.
For example:
- A/P I/X
- A/P II/X
- A/P III/X
The exception to this is Premium Edition prints, which do not have a border. These editions were designed to resemble original paintings, so Jack Vettriano signed and numbered them within the image itself rather than in the margin.
How Many Artist's Proofs Were Produced?
There is no universal rule, but Artist's Proofs were typically issued in quantities equivalent to around 10% of the main Limited Edition run.
For example:
- 150 Limited Editions
- 15 Artist's Proofs
However, this varied from release to release.
Many Jack Vettriano editions also had Studio Proofs produced alongside them, which were usually issued in even smaller quantities.
Artist's Proof vs Studio Proof
Artist's Proofs and Studio Proofs are often confused, but they served different purposes.
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There is no difference in the artwork itself. The distinction lies in designation and rarity.
Are Artist's Proofs Worth More Than Limited Editions?
Often yes, but not always.
Because fewer Artist's Proofs were produced, they are generally more sought after by collectors and usually command a premium over the equivalent Limited Edition.
However, rarity alone does not determine value.
Other important factors include:
- The popularity of the image
- Overall condition
- Provenance
- Collector demand
Condition is one of the biggest influences on desirability and long-term value. Proper storage, framing and handling can all play an important role in preserving an Artist's Proof over time, particularly for older silkscreen editions. You can read more in our guide on how to care for your print.
A highly sought-after image as a standard Limited Edition may still outperform a less popular image issued as an Artist's Proof.
Artist's Proofs After Jack Vettriano's Death
Artist's Proofs were produced during Jack Vettriano's lifetime and personally signed by the artist.
However, editions released by The Estate of Jack Vettriano have introduced a new publishing structure.
Estate editions are no longer signed by the artist and instead carry an official estate stamp.
Because there is no longer an artist available to review and approve Artist's Proofs in the traditional sense, Artist's Proofs are no longer being produced for these Estate releases.
Instead, Jack Vettriano Publishing Ltd has reintroduced Studio Proofs for selected Estate editions.
Collectors should therefore understand that Artist's Proofs are now associated with editions produced during Jack Vettriano's lifetime.
Do Artist's Proofs Come With a Certificate of Authenticity?
Sometimes.
Whether an Artist's Proof includes a Certificate of Authenticity (COA) often depends on when and how the print was originally published.
Older releases may not have been issued with a COA, particularly if they were published many years ago. This does not automatically indicate a problem if the print has clear provenance and has been purchased through a reputable source.
Where available, collectors should retain:
- Certificates of Authenticity
- Original gallery invoices
- Publisher paperwork
- Previous ownership history
These documents all help establish provenance.
Should You Buy an Artist's Proof?
Artist's Proofs can be an excellent option for collectors who appreciate rarity and enjoy owning a version traditionally associated with the artist.
However, we always recommend buying the image you love first and the proof designation second.
Condition, authenticity and personal enjoyment remain far more important than simply owning the rarest version available.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Artist's Proofs better than Limited Editions?
No. The image quality is identical. Artist's Proofs are simply produced in smaller numbers.
Are Artist's Proofs rarer than Limited Editions?
Yes. Artist's Proofs are normally issued in much smaller quantities.
Are Artist's Proofs signed?
Yes. Lifetime Jack Vettriano Artist's Proofs are signed by the artist.
Are Artist's Proofs still being produced?
No. The Estate of Jack Vettriano no longer produces Artist's Proofs for new estate-stamped editions.
Are Artist's Proofs worth more?
Often yes, but image popularity, condition and collector demand all influence value.
Final Thoughts
Artist's Proofs remain one of the most desirable ways to collect Jack Vettriano prints. Produced in smaller numbers and closely associated with the artist, they offer collectors an additional layer of exclusivity beyond the standard Limited Edition.
Understanding how Artist's Proofs differ from Limited Editions and Studio Proofs will help you make a more informed decision when building your collection.