Woodcut Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐ชต
woodcut
[หwสdหkสt ]
Definitions
printing
A print made from a design cut in a block of wood, especially formerly used for book illustrations.
Synonyms
woodblock print, xylograph.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| woodcut |
A print made from a design cut into a block of wood, often used in traditional art and illustration.
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| woodblock print |
A print made from an engraved wood block, typically associated with traditional East Asian art, especially Japanese ukiyo-e.
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| xylograph |
A technical term for a woodcut or wood engraving, often used in historical or academic contexts.
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Examples of usage
- The book contained beautiful woodcut illustrations.
- She learned how to create woodcuts in her art class.
printing
To produce an image or design by cutting into a block of wood.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| woodcut |
Used to refer to a print made from a design cut into a block of wood. Often associated with historical printing techniques and traditional art forms.
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| carve |
Used when shaping or sculpting material (such as wood, stone, or ice) by cutting away parts of it. Often used in the context of creating detailed designs or sculptures.
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| engrave |
Often refers to carving text or designs into a hard surface, such as metal or stone, usually to create a lasting impression. Commonly used for inscriptions, jewelry, and trophies.
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Examples of usage
- The artist woodcut the illustration for the book cover.
- She enjoys woodcutting as a hobby.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Historical Origins
- The technique began in ancient China and Japan over a thousand years ago, initially used for printing on fabric.
- In the 15th century, woodcut became popular in Europe, especially for illustrations in books and religious texts.
Art and Technique
- Woodcuts are created by carving into soft wood, leaving the design raised, which is then inked and pressed onto paper.
- Famous artists, like Albrecht Dรผrer, used woodcuts for detailed prints that showcased their artistic skills.
Cultural Significance
- Woodcuts played an essential role in spreading literacy during the Renaissance by illustrating texts and making them more appealing.
- This printing method was crucial for producing propaganda during significant historical movements, influencing public opinion.
Technical Aspects
- The process is labor-intensive, requiring careful planning and precision from the artist to achieve the desired image.
- The use of different types of wood can affect the print's texture and detail; for instance, cherry wood allows finer lines compared to softer woods.
Modern Usage
- Today, woodcuts are still used by artists for printmaking, often combined with other techniques such as linocut or digital prints.
- Contemporary woodcut prints are showcased in galleries and highlighted for their craft and artistic expression.
Origin of 'woodcut'
The art of woodcut printing has a long history, dating back to ancient China and Egypt. Woodcutting was a popular technique for creating illustrations in books during the Middle Ages and Renaissance. Artists such as Albrecht Dรผrer were known for their intricate woodcut designs. Today, woodcut remains a cherished form of printmaking, valued for its unique texture and handmade quality.
See also: blackwood, underwood, wood, woodcraft, woodcutter, woodcutting, wooden, woodland, woods, woodshop, woodsman, woodwork, woodworker, woodworking, woodworm, woody.