How can I determine if a Currier & Ives print is authentic?
Currier & Ives prints have been reproduced frequently throughout the 20th century, including by the Traveler’s Insurance Company in their annual calendar. If the print states under the image that it is reprinted or reproduced from a Currier & Ives print it is not an original image. The majority of Currier & Ives prints were hand-colored before they were sold. The coloring was often enhanced with gum arabic, a shiny varnish that can be viewed on the surface of the color. The gum arabic can best be seen by holding the print in a raking light or at an angle. Often, the easiest way to determine if a print is authentic is to examine the image under magnification. A reproduction will exhibit a symmetrical or uniform pattern of dots called pixilation. Irregular dots and solid color often indicate authenticity. Currier & Ives’ prints are divided into three sizes. Small folio prints are approximately 8 by 12 ½ inches, medium folio prints are 10 to 14 inches by 14 to 20 inches and large folio pr
