Intaglio | History, Process & Techniques

Introduction to Intaglio

• Intaglio is one of the four major classes of printmaking techniques, alongside relief printing, stenciling, and lithography.
• Unlike other methods, intaglio involves printing ink from recessed areas of a plate.
• The term encompasses techniques such as engraving, etching, drypoint, aquatint, and mezzotint.

Process of Intaglio Printing

• The design is cut, scratched, or etched into a printing surface (plate).
• Common materials for plates include copper, zinc, aluminum, magnesium, plastics, or coated paper.
• Ink is rubbed into the incisions, the surface is wiped clean, and printing requires significant pressure.
• Typically printed using a roller press which involves a movable flatbed and two bearing rollers.
• Wet paper is placed over the inked plate, pressed under a blanket via the rollers, embossing the paper with ink from the incisions.

Techniques in Intaglio

• à la poupée: Involves applying different colors to one plate using a fabric bundle for multi-color prints.
• Multiple Plate Technique: Uses multiple plates for different colors, requiring precise alignment for color registration.

Historical Context

• Intaglio has been a versatile method due to its ability to produce a wide range of effects.
• Utilized by notable artists across history, offering freedom and possibilities for expression.

Etching: A Subset of Intaglio

• Etching involves metal plates (typically copper) with designs incised by acid.
• Initially, a ground (acid-resistant coating) is applied, through which a design is drawn.
• The exposed areas are etched away by acid, creating lines that hold ink.
• Aquatint, a variant, uses resin to create tones and is often combined with etching.

Historical Development of Etching

• Originated from etching on armor; early etchers include Urs Graf and Albrecht Dürer.
• Rembrandt is considered a master of etching, utilizing its freedom to depict light and atmosphere.
• Techniques evolved with artists like Tiepolo, Piranesi, and Goya, furthering the medium's expressive capabilities.

Modern and Contemporary Uses

• The 20th century saw a revival and evolution of etching, with artists like Picasso and Matisse exploring new possibilities.
• Modern etching embraces both traditional methods and experimental techniques, continuing to influence contemporary art.

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Additional Resources

• Britannica articles provide further detailed historical and technical insights into both intaglio and etching processes.