The word "intaglio" describes prints created from plates where the ink-bearing regions are recessed beneath the plate's surface. Though brass, zinc, and other materials are occasionally utilized, copper …

Engraved or incised work where the design is sunk into the surface is called intaglio, and is the opposite of cameo, where the design is in relief. Intaglio designs are made on gemstones, glass, ceramics, …

What is intaglio? In intaglio printing, the artist incises an image into a metal plate—such as copper, zinc, or steel—with either a sharp instrument or a strong acid solution. The plate must be thoroughly inked …

Oct 19, 2025 · Intaglio is a printmaking technique that involves creating an image by incising or engraving a design onto a surface. The word “intaglio” comes from the Italian word for “engrave” or …

The word comes from the Italian intagliare, meaning “to incise” or “to carve.” In intaglio printing, the lines or areas that hold the ink are incised below the surface of the plate, and printing relies on the …

INTAGLIO (from Italian meaning: incised) An imprint produced by a method in which ink is rubbed into the grooves of a design made in a (usually metal or collaged) printing plate.

Apr 21, 2002 · Intaglio printmaking is a method where the artist engraves or incises an image into a plate's surface, typically made of materials like copper or steel, using tools or acid.

Mar 11, 2025 · In this article, you’ll find out the techniques that bring intaglio printing to life. Intaglio isn’t just one method—it’s an entire family of techniques, each offering unique textures, tonal qualities, …

Cite this page as: The Museum of Modern Art, "Intaglio, an introduction," in Smarthistory, December 21, 2015, accessed December 30, 2025, https://smarthistory.org/introduction-to-intaglio/.

May 1, 2025 · Intaglio printing is a significant printmaking technique characterized by the incising of images into a plate’s surface. This process involves creating recessed ink areas through various …