Intaglio: meaning, definitions and examples

Intaglio is used to describe a specific method of printmaking or carving, where an image is incised into a surface, and the incised line or sunken area holds the ink. This term is often used in art and printmaking discussions.

• The artist used the intaglio technique to create detailed textures on the metal plate.
• Intaglio prints are valued for their fine lines and intricate details.

Engraving refers to the process of carving or cutting a design into a hard surface such as metal, wood, or glass. This word is often used when talking about artworks, personalized items, or detailed craftsmanship.

• He spent hours engraving the couple's initials onto the silver locket.
• The museum's collection included ancient engravings on stone tablets.

Etching is a specific printmaking process where the design is drawn onto a metal plate coated with a waxy ground, then exposed by acid. It is commonly referred to in artistic contexts, especially when discussing detailed and shaded prints.

• The artist's new exhibition featured beautiful etchings of cityscapes.
• She learned the technique of etching during her printmaking course.

Incision is a more general term that refers to a cut or a mark made by a sharp tool into a surface. This word is often used in medical or scientific contexts but can also be applied in art and sculpture.

• The surgeon made a precise incision to minimize scarring.
• The sculptor's incision on the marble block was the first step in creating the statue.

Refers to a type of engraving where the design is carved into a surface, and the recessed areas hold the ink or material. Used in printmaking, jewelry, and art to create detailed images.

• The artist used intaglio techniques to create the intricate details on the metal plate.
• Intaglio printing is a method that produces high-quality prints with deep, rich lines.

A broad term for the act of sculpting or cutting a material to form a desired shape, used in various contexts like woodworking, stone, and jewelry. It doesn't specify the type of carving, hence widely applicable.

• He spent hours carving a wooden statue for the village festival.
• Carving pumpkins is a popular activity during Halloween.

Refers to a piece of jewelry, usually a brooch or pendant, featuring a raised (positive) relief image, typically a profile of a person's face. Often made from materials like agate, coral, or shell.

• She wore a beautiful cameo brooch that had been passed down through her family for generations.
• The cameo pendant featured a delicate carving of a woman’s profile set against a contrasting background.

Specifically describes the process of creating a cameo, where the design is carved in relief, often from a material with layers of different colors, revealing a raised image against a contrasting background.

• The artisan specialized in cameo carving, using shells to create stunning portrait pieces.
• Cameo carving requires precision to ensure the raised design stands out sharply against the background.

Used in art and printing, 'intaglio' refers to a technique where an image is cut into a surface, and the incised line or sunken area holds the ink. It's most often associated with printmaking and fine art.

• The artist experimented with intaglio to create intricate designs on metal plates.
• Intaglio printing techniques include etching, engraving, and aquatint.

Often used to describe the process of cutting or carving text or designs into hard materials like wood, metal, or stone. It is commonly associated with creating detailed and precise artwork or inscriptions.

• He chose to engrave his initials on the back of the watch.
• The jeweler can engrave a personal message on the inside of the ring.

Typically used for describing the process of using acid or another chemical substance to create designs on a metal surface. It can also refer to creating designs on glass or other materials. The term can carry a somewhat negative connotation when used figuratively.

• The artist used acid to etch the design onto the metal plate.
• Her words were etched into his memory forever.

Used mainly in a technical or medical context to describe making precise cuts or incisions. It can also be used in art, but it's more clinical and precise compared to 'engrave' or 'etch'.

• The surgeon had to incise the tissue carefully to avoid any complications.
• Ancient Egyptians used sharp tools to incise hieroglyphics into the stone walls.