In printmaking, an edition is a set of prints struck from one plate, composing a limited run of prints.
Literally, edition means "that which has been edited." In practice, different editions of a dictionary, encyclopedia, textbook, or publication of research may differ substantially or completely. Editions of periodicals of classic works may differ in typeface, publisher, or proportion of original edition published. Thus, dictionaries (for example) typically vary significantly from edition to edition, but non-reference material may not. Editions may be truncated or expanded. "Edition" is not synonymous with "reprint."
One of the main reasons for the development of printmaking was the desire of artists to make more money from their work by selling multiple copies; printmaking satisfies this motive. Much early printmaking consisted only of copying existing works of art, and was considered then as posters are considered now: a downmarket version of a great work. From the 18th century on, though, artists commonly pursued printmaking as the primary medium for some or all of their work.