Lithograph vs. Poster — What's the Difference?
Edited by Tayyaba Rehman — By Fiza Rafique — Updated on November 6, 2023
A lithograph is a print made using a printing process involving oil and water, while a poster is a printed placard typically used for advertising.
Difference Between Lithograph and Poster
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
A lithograph is created using a process that involves etching a smooth limestone block or metal plate with a greasy substance to repel ink except where the design is to be printed. Posters are mass-produced printed materials, commonly used for advertisements, announcements, or decoration, made using various printing methods, including digital printing.
Lithographs are considered original art forms, as the artist directly creates the image on the printing surface, often in limited editions. Posters are typically reproductions and not usually considered original works of art. They are printed in large quantities and are more accessible and affordable than lithographs.
The value of a lithograph often comes from its limited quantity, artistic merit, and the involvement of the artist in the printing process. Posters can also have value, especially vintage or collectible ones, but they are generally not valued as fine art in the same way lithographs are.
Collectors seek lithographs for their artistic qualities and connection to the artist. Posters, on the other hand, are popular for their graphic designs, pop culture references, and decorative appeal. Both can be framed and displayed, but the intentions and market for each are quite different.
The production of a lithograph is labor-intensive and time-consuming, requiring manual printing techniques. In contrast, posters are quickly and easily produced with modern printing technology, allowing for vibrant colors and high-resolution images.
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Comparison Chart
Creation Process
Uses a traditional printing process on limestone or metal.
Produced with modern printing methods, like digital printing.
Artistic Value
Considered an original form of art.
Generally not considered original art.
Quantity
Often limited editions.
Mass-produced in large quantities.
Purpose
Artistic expression and collectibility.
Advertising, announcements, and decoration.
Collectibility
High value for collectors, especially limited editions.
Some are collectible, especially vintage or unique designs.
Compare with Definitions
Lithograph
A graphic art form, often signed and numbered by the artist.
Limited edition lithographs tend to appreciate in value over time.
Poster
A visual presentation usually made from paper and displayed publicly.
The shop window featured a colorful poster announcing a sale.
Lithograph
A print made from a design created on a flat stone or metal surface.
The gallery displayed a rare lithograph by Henri Matisse.
Poster
A medium for propaganda, advertisement, or public announcements.
World War II propaganda posters are now considered collector's items.
Lithograph
A hand-made print technique known for its high quality and rich coloration.
The artist's signature at the bottom confirmed it was an original lithograph.
Poster
A large printed notice used for advertising or decoration.
The band released a poster to promote their upcoming concert.
Lithograph
An artistic printmaking process that uses the principle of oil and water repulsion.
She admired the lithograph's detailed texture, a hallmark of the medium.
Poster
A piece of printed paper designed to be attached to a wall or vertical surface.
Her room was covered in posters of her favorite movie stars.
Lithograph
A print produced by lithography.
Poster
Often used as a promotional or decorative tool, depicting images or text.
He collected vintage travel posters from the 1920s.
Lithograph
To produce by lithography.
Poster
A poster is a temporary promotion of an idea, product, or event put up in a public space for mass consumption. Typically, posters include both textual and graphic elements, although a poster may be either wholly graphical or wholly text.
Lithograph
A printed image produced by lithography.
Poster
A large, usually printed placard, bill, or announcement, often illustrated, that is posted to advertise or publicize something.
Lithograph
To create a copy of an image through lithography.
Poster
An artistic work, often a reproduction of an original painting or photograph, printed on a large sheet of paper.
Lithograph
To trace on stone by the process of lithography so as to transfer the design to paper by printing; as, to lithograph a design; to lithograph a painting. See lithography.
Poster
One that posts bills or notices.
Lithograph
A print made by lithography.
Poster
One that travels in speed or with haste.
Lithograph
A print produced by lithography
Poster
A picture of a celebrity, an event etc., intended to be attached to a wall.
He has posters of his favorite band, sports teams and holiday resorts up.
Lithograph
Duplicator that prints by lithography; a flat surface (of stone or metal) is treated to absorb or repel ink in the desired pattern
Poster
An advertisement to be posted on a pole, wall etc. to advertise something.
I saw a poster for the film on the side of a bus.
Lithograph
Make by lithography
Poster
(internet) One who posts a message.
Some posters left the online message board after the squabble.
Lithograph
A method of printing illustrations, historically used in books and artworks.
Vintage lithographs were on sale at the antique book fair.
Poster
A shot that hits a goalpost, scoring one point.
Poster
A shot that hits a goalpost instead of passing into the goal.
We got three posters in the third and lost.
Poster
(basketball) A dunk over a defending player.
Poster
(dated) A posthorse.
Poster
(archaic) A swift traveller; a courier.
Poster
(transitive) To decorate with posters.
To poster the walls of a bedroom
Poster
A large bill or placard intended to be posted in public places.
Poster
One who posts bills; a billposter.
Poster
One who posts, or travels expeditiously; a courier.
Poster
A post horse.
Poster
A sign posted in a public place as an advertisement;
A poster advertised the coming attractions
Poster
Someone who pastes up bills or placards on walls or billboards
Poster
A horse kept at an inn or post house for use by mail carriers or for rent to travelers
Common Curiosities
What is a lithograph?
A lithograph is a print made using a special process that involves etching a design onto a stone or metal plate.
How can you tell a lithograph from a poster?
A lithograph typically has a more textured appearance and may be numbered or signed by the artist, unlike most posters.
Can posters be considered art?
Posters can be considered a form of graphic art, especially when they feature significant artistic or design merit.
What paper is best for posters?
Posters are usually printed on thicker, more durable paper that can withstand handling and public display.
What is a poster?
A poster is a large printed paper designed for public display, often for advertising or decoration.
Are lithographs expensive?
Lithographs can be expensive, particularly if they are limited editions by well-known artists.
Do posters have any value?
Some posters, especially vintage or collectible ones, can have significant value.
Can lithographs be reproduced?
Lithographs are original prints, but unauthorized reproductions can be made, diminishing the value.
What kind of paper is used for lithographs?
Lithographs are often printed on high-quality, archival paper to ensure longevity.
What subjects do lithographs depict?
Lithographs can depict any subject, from abstract art to realistic scenes.
What are common themes in posters?
Posters often feature themes related to movies, music, travel, products, or events.
Are lithographs good investments?
Original lithographs by notable artists can be good investments if purchased wisely.
How are posters typically displayed?
Posters are commonly displayed by hanging on walls or placing in frames.
How should I care for a lithograph?
Protect lithographs from light, humidity, and handle with care to prevent damage.
What's the difference in the production process of lithographs versus posters?
Lithographs require a manual printing process, whereas posters can be rapidly produced using digital or offset printing.
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Written by
Fiza RafiqueFiza Rafique is a skilled content writer at AskDifference.com, where she meticulously refines and enhances written pieces. Drawing from her vast editorial expertise, Fiza ensures clarity, accuracy, and precision in every article. Passionate about language, she continually seeks to elevate the quality of content for readers worldwide.
Edited by
Tayyaba RehmanTayyaba Rehman is a distinguished writer, currently serving as a primary contributor to askdifference.com. As a researcher in semantics and etymology, Tayyaba's passion for the complexity of languages and their distinctions has found a perfect home on the platform. Tayyaba delves into the intricacies of language, distinguishing between commonly confused words and phrases, thereby providing clarity for readers worldwide.
