Mezzotint

Mezzotint - Mezzotint print

 

Mezzotint is an intaglio printmaking technique known for its rich tonal range and velvety texture. It involves working a metal plate, typically copper, to create a surface with a rough texture using a tool called a "rocker." This rough surface holds ink effectively. By selectively smoothing or burnishing areas, the artist creates gradations from dark to light. The plate is then inked and wiped, leaving ink only in the depressions created by the smoothing process. When printed, mezzotint produces soft, nuanced tones, making it well-suited for reproducing paintings and creating atmospheric effects. It requires a skilled touch to master the technique's subtleties.