How accurate are the photographs and condition notes?
To enable effective inspection of the condition of the prints we do not use scans but instead provide high-resolution photographs. Each print we sell is photographed individually and the photos you see are of the impression you will receive. The photos show front and back, margins included, unretouched.
Every print is examined by us and every flaw is described in the condition notes. We prefer listing too much over listing too little, including listing minor flaws that would typically not be listed at other places in the trade.
How accurate are the descriptions?
The descriptions of the artists and prints are written by us, and not by AI. This avoids inadvertently repeating online misinformation or including statements made up by AI. Instead, the foundations of the descriptions are our own inspection of the print and reference works.
Is shipping free?
Yes. All shipping costs are included in the listed price, for every destination, and every print ships insured with track & trace. See the shipping policy and delivery times here: Shipping & Returns.
Do I have to pay customs duties?
Not for shipping to the EU, UK or US. We ship from the EU (The Netherlands) so there are no customs duties within the EU. For orders from the UK and US we pay the duties and handle the paperwork. Elsewhere, duties may apply on import. Details: Shipping & Returns.
How will Nipponprints ship the items?
Flat between rigid boards, in acid-free materials, insured and tracked. Details: Shipping & Returns.
Can I return the items?
Yes, within 14 days of delivery; return shipping is on the buyer and the item cost is refunded. Details: Shipping & Returns.
Are there any other extra costs?
Not from Nipponprints. However, should you wish to frame the ordered prints, you will have to pay for the material and also the framing if you let someone else do this. We mention this since these costs can be significant, depending on the materials used and the framer. Though this will be entirely worth it in most cases, it is something we would like new customers to be aware of before buying.
What payment methods do you accept?
We accept credit card, Wero, bank transfers and payment methods such as Apple Pay. If you require a different payment method, please let us know via our contact-form and we will try to accommodate this.
Do you accept PayPal?
We do not use PayPal, but instead use stripe.com as our payment provider. Previous customers who asked for PayPal payments have mostly opted for paying by credit card instead.
Should I take measures to keep the prints in good shape?
Yes. Naturally you are free to do with the print as you please (if you do not intend to return it within 14 days), but to keep the prints in the best shape certain guidelines apply:
- Woodblock prints can gradually fade due to exposure to sunlight. As such you should not place your prints in direct sunlight. As extra protection you can consider framing with uv-protective glass.
- Acids can damage the print. You should use acid-free materials when framing.
- The margins of the prints, along with the seals and signatures, are an intrinsic part of the prints. Cutting them decreases their value and possibly their appearance. Judging the quality of prints is also harder when the back is not available for inspection, so it is advisable to not mount the print. Besides that, a mounted print can look worse.
- Placing glass directly on the surface of the prints can damage the prints and should be avoided as well.
For older, museum-grade prints you might not wish to display them for long stretches, and instead store them safely in acid-free Washi paper, folders or boxes, in a location where temperature and humidity do not vary wildly.
The prints are actually fairly strong and with fine treatment they will remain in excellent condition for a very long period.
Can I ask you another question?
Yes, you most certainly can! In fact, we really like to hear from you and are honestly happy if we can help out with even a simple thing. This holds true both for people who order and for people who just browse the site, so please do not hesitate to contact us here.