Introduction to Louis Icart Prints
Icart’s most celebrated works were created between 1920 and 1940, during the height of the Art Deco period. His technical mastery of etching, combined with his ability to capture the sensuality and style of the era, has established him as one of the most important printmakers of his time. Today, original Icart etchings command significant prices at auction, with rare pieces reaching into the thousands of dollars.
Louis Icart Market Highlights
For rare, sought-after originals like "Speed" (1927)
Most valuable works created during Art Deco era
Position in top 5000 best-selling artists at auction
Factors Affecting Louis Icart Print Values
Authenticity and Signature
Authentic Louis Icart prints bear distinctive signatures and specific markings. Genuine pieces typically have:
- A pencil signature by the artist
- A blind stamp (dry seal)
- A visible plate mark from the etching process
- Copyright information and date
- The word “Gravé” (engraved) or “Imp” (printed) followed by the printer’s name
Signed prints command significantly higher prices than unsigned examples. According to Lockport Street Gallery, the signature is one of the most critical determinants of value.
Rarity and Desirability
Some Icart prints were produced in larger quantities than others, making the rarer examples more valuable. His most sought-after subjects include:
- Elegant women in fashionable attire
- Art Deco-styled romantic scenes
- Works featuring greyhound dogs
- Erotic or suggestive themes
- Early automotive subjects like “Speed” (1927)
According to auction data from Invaluable.com, these popular themes consistently achieve higher prices at auction.
Condition and Conservation
Condition Assessment
Louis Icart Print Condition Factors
Check applicable items to assess print condition
- No foxing (brown spots) or staining
- Original hand-coloring intact and vibrant
- No tears, creases, or repairs
- Proper framing with acid-free materials
- Original margins preserved
- No trimming or alteration to the image
- Paper remains supple without brittleness
Properly preserved prints in excellent condition can command prices 30-50% higher than similar works with condition issues. Conservation treatments, while sometimes necessary, should be disclosed when selling as they can affect value.
Print Type and Technique
Louis Icart created works using different printmaking techniques, and this affects their value:
- Original etchings with aquatint and hand-coloring (highest value)
- Limited edition lithographs (moderate value)
- Reproduction prints made after his death (lowest value)
The most valuable Icart prints are his original etchings, which involve a complex process where the artist engraves a design onto a metal plate. According to Heritage Auctions, these originals show distinctive textural qualities that reproductions lack.
Louis Icart Print Value Ranges
Current market values based on type and condition
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How to Authenticate Louis Icart Prints
Identifying Plate Marks
One of the most reliable authentication features is the plate mark—the indentation in the paper created by the metal etching plate during printing. According to Lockport Street Gallery:
“Since Icart used thin plates, both the top and bottom edges of the plate can be visible in the paper. Unlike a blind stamp, the plate mark is created during the printing process, and has to be there if the work is an etching as opposed to a reproduction lithographic print.”
The plate mark is typically a rectangular indentation extending beyond the image area. Reproductions generally lack this physical characteristic.
Examining Paper Quality and Age
Authentic Icart prints were produced on high-quality, acid-free paper that has distinctive aging characteristics:
- Original 1920s-1940s paper will show natural aging
- The paper should feel substantial but not thick or glossy
- When held to light, you might see watermarks in some examples
- Modern reproduction paper often appears too white or bright
Analyzing Print Colors and Details
Genuine Louis Icart etchings showcase exceptional technical skill:
- Hand-applied watercolors with subtle variations
- Delicate aquatint textures creating tonal ranges
- Fine etched lines with exceptional detail
- Slight imperfections characteristic of the hand process
Reproductions typically have flat colors without the dimensionality of original hand-coloring. Under magnification, originals will show irregular patterns of ink and color application, while reproductions often display regular dot patterns characteristic of mechanical printing processes.
Louis Icart Career Milestones
- 1888
Birth in Toulouse, France
Louis Justin Laurent Icart was born into a family of merchants and began drawing at an early age. - 1907
Moved to Paris
Began studying painting and developed his distinctive style while working on fashion illustrations. - 1920s
Early Success Period
Gained popularity with his first etchings, establishing his signature Art Deco style. - 1927-1940
Peak Creative Period
Most valuable and sought-after works were created during this era, including “Speed” and other iconic images. - 1950
Death in Paris
Passed away, leaving behind an influential body of work that would later experience a major revival. - 1970s-Present
Market Revival
Renewed interest in Art Deco led to increasing value and collectibility of Icart prints.
Market Trends and Investment Potential
According to Artprice.com, Louis Icart ranks 3,499th in the top 5,000 world rankings of best-selling artists at auction, with his works primarily selling in the United States. This suggests a stable and mature market for his prints.
Recent Auction Results
Tracking recent sales provides insight into current market values and collector preferences:
Notable Louis Icart Auction Results
Selected recent sales from major auction houses
| Category | Price | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Original Signed Etchings (Excellent Condition) | $1,500 - $5,000+ | Rare subjects, complete documentation |
| Original Signed Etchings (Good Condition) | $800 - $2,500 | Common subjects or minor condition issues |
| Unsigned Original Etchings | $450 - $1,200 | Lacking signature but otherwise authentic |
| Limited Edition Lithographs | $300 - $900 | Authorized reproductions |
| Modern Reproductions | $50 - $200 | Posthumous prints without artistic value |
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Data from LiveAuctioneers shows a wide range of prices, with exceptional examples occasionally surpassing the $5,000 mark, particularly for rare subjects or those in pristine condition.
Investment Considerations
When considering Louis Icart prints as investments, collectors should note:
- Provenance matters: Prints with documented history of ownership command premium prices
- Condition is critical: Even minor restoration can significantly impact value
- Subject preference: Certain themes (automotive, fashion, dogs) consistently outperform others
- Market cyclicality: Art Deco periodically experiences renewed popularity, affecting values
- Authentication documentation: Having expert verification increases resale potential
According to market data from Art Brokerage, Icart prints have shown steady appreciation over time, making them relatively stable investments compared to other decorative art categories.
Collecting Louis Icart: Beginner's Guide
Where to Buy Authentic Louis Icart Prints
Quality sources for authentic Icart prints include:
- Established auction houses like Heritage Auctions, Christie’s, and Sotheby’s
- Specialized galleries with expertise in early 20th-century prints
- Reputable online platforms like 1stDibs (for vetted dealers)
- Art fairs specializing in works on paper or Art Deco
Be cautious with general marketplaces like eBay, where reproductions are frequently misrepresented as originals. When using eBay, look for sellers with specialized knowledge and detailed condition reports.
Starting a Collection on a Budget
New collectors can enter the market through:
- Lesser-known Icart subjects, which can be more affordable
- Unsigned but otherwise authentic examples
- Prints with minor condition issues that don’t affect the image
- Later works from the 1940s, which are often more accessible price-wise
According to auction data from Invaluable.com, entry-level original Icart etchings can sometimes be found for under $500, providing an accessible entry point for new collectors.
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
When collecting Icart prints, be wary of:
- “Too good to be true” pricing: Authentic Icart etchings rarely sell for very low prices
- Inconsistent signatures: Study authentic signatures before purchasing
- Missing plate marks: A key indicator of reproduction prints
- Over-restored works: Heavy restoration diminishes both authenticity and value
- Improper framing: Acidic materials can damage prints over time
Preserving and Displaying Louis Icart Prints
Conservation Best Practices
To preserve your Icart prints:
- Frame using acid-free, archival materials
- Use UV-protective glass or acrylic to prevent fading
- Avoid displaying in direct sunlight or areas with high humidity
- Handle prints by the edges while wearing cotton gloves
- Store unframed prints flat in acid-free portfolio cases
For prints requiring restoration, consult only with paper conservators specializing in vintage prints. Amateur restoration attempts can permanently damage valuable works.
Display Recommendations
When displaying Icart prints:
- Group thematically (fashion subjects, romantic scenes, etc.)
- Consider period-appropriate frames from the Art Deco era
- Maintain consistent environmental conditions
- Rotate displayed prints periodically if exposed to any light
- Complement with other decorative arts from the 1920s-1940s period
Common Questions About Louis Icart Prints
How do you know if an Icart print is real?
Authentic Louis Icart prints will have several key indicators:
- A visible plate mark (indentation in the paper from the etching plate)
- Hand-applied watercolor with subtle variations
- A blind stamp (dry seal)
- Pencil signature by the artist
- Fine etched lines with exceptional detail
- Quality paper showing appropriate age characteristics
- Copyright information and date
Since Icart used thin plates, both the top and bottom edges of the plate mark should be visible in the paper. This plate mark is created during the printing process and must be present for a genuine etching, distinguishing it from a reproduction lithographic print.
What makes Louis Icart prints valuable?
Several factors determine the value of Louis Icart prints:
- Authenticity: Genuine etchings with proper signatures and markings
- Rarity: Limited editions and uncommon subjects command higher prices
- Condition: Pristine examples without repairs, tears, or foxing
- Subject matter: Some themes (automotive, fashion, dogs) are particularly desirable
- Provenance: Documented history of ownership adds value
- Size and format: Larger, more detailed works typically command higher prices
- Historical importance: Works that exemplify Icart’s signature Art Deco style
The most valuable Icart prints typically come from his peak creative period between 1927 and 1940, with rare subjects in excellent condition commanding the highest prices.
How much are Louis Icart prints worth?
Louis Icart print values vary widely based on authenticity, condition, and subject matter:
- Original signed etchings in excellent condition: $1,500 - $5,000+ (rare subjects command premium prices)
- Original signed etchings with minor condition issues: $800 - $2,500
- Unsigned original etchings: $450 - $1,200
- Limited edition lithographs: $300 - $900
- Modern reproductions: $50 - $200
Exceptional examples, particularly those with popular subjects like “Speed” (1927), have sold for nearly $5,000 at recent auctions. According to Artprice.com, Icart ranks among the top 5,000 best-selling artists at auction, with most sales occurring in the United States market.
How do I tell if my print is valuable?
To determine if your print is valuable, examine these factors:
- Authentication: Confirm it’s a genuine Icart etching with proper signatures and markings
- Condition assessment: Check for damage, restoration, fading, or staining
- Subject evaluation: Research if your print depicts a popular or rare Icart subject
- Edition information: Determine if it’s from a limited edition or rare series
- Provenance research: Document any history of ownership or exhibition
- Professional appraisal: Consult with an expert specializing in early 20th-century prints
Generally, value is enhanced by quality (authenticity and condition), desirability (appealing subject matter), and rarity (limited production). For a definitive assessment, consider having your print evaluated by a reputable auction house like Heritage Auctions or a gallery specializing in Icart’s work.
Are Louis Icart prints hand-colored?
Yes, authentic Louis Icart etchings were typically hand-colored using watercolors. This hand-coloring process is a distinctive feature of his work and adds to their value and appeal.
The coloring was applied by skilled colorists under Icart’s supervision, creating subtle variations in color and tone that cannot be perfectly replicated by mechanical reproduction processes. When examining an Icart print, look for:
- Slight variations in color application
- Transparent layers of watercolor that allow the etched lines to show through
- Occasional minor irregularities in color application
- Colors that appear to sit on the surface rather than being embedded in the paper
These hand-colored characteristics are important authentication features and distinguish genuine Icart etchings from later reproductions, which typically have more uniform, mechanical color applications.
External Resources for Louis Icart Collectors
Invaluable: Louis Icart Art Value Price Guide
Comprehensive database of Louis Icart’s past auction results and sold artwork prices to research historical data and current market values.
Heritage Auctions: Louis Icart Paintings and Prints
Access to auction archives, artist information, and upcoming sales featuring Louis Icart works from one of the world’s largest auction houses.
Artprice: Louis Icart Market Analytics
Professional art market database providing analytics, price trends, and auction rankings for Louis Icart works worldwide.
Lockport Street Gallery: Louis Icart Authentication Guide
Specialized gallery offering detailed information on authenticating Louis Icart etchings and assessing their condition and value.
1stDibs: Louis Icart Etchings Marketplace
Curated platform featuring vetted dealers selling authenticated Louis Icart etchings with detailed descriptions and provenance information.
LiveAuctioneers: Louis Icart Price Guide
Comprehensive price guide tracking Louis Icart sales across numerous auction houses, with historical data and pricing analytics.
Art Brokerage: Louis Icart Artwork Exchange
Platform connecting buyers and sellers of Louis Icart artwork with listings, wanted ads, and market information for collectors.
Conclusion: Building Value in Your Louis Icart Collection
The market for Louis Icart prints continues to show stability and growth, particularly in the United States. For collectors, the combination of artistic merit, historical significance, and investment potential makes these prints perennially attractive additions to any fine art collection.
Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just beginning your journey into the world of Louis Icart, taking the time to research authenticity indicators, condition factors, and market trends will help ensure that your purchases maintain their value and bring lasting aesthetic enjoyment.
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| Item | Price | Date | Auction House |
|---|---|---|---|
| "Speed" (1927) | $4,895 | 2023 | Original Art Broker |
| "Meadow Maiden" (1946) | $450 | 2023 | Gilden's Art Gallery |
| "Bubbles" (1920s) | $1,800 | 2022 | Christie's |
| "Reclining Nude" (1920) | $1,440 | 2022 | 1stDibs |
| "Parisian Life" (1930s) | $2,200 | 2022 | Heritage Auctions |