Wood engraving

Wood engraving

 

Wood engraving is a relief printmaking technique that involves carving an image onto the end-grain surface of a hardwood block, typically boxwood. Unlike woodblock printing where the image is carved in the plank's flat surface, in wood engraving, the artist uses fine tools to create intricate lines and textures on the dense end-grain. The areas that are not carved hold ink, and the block is inked and pressed onto paper to create the print. Wood engravings are known for their precise and detailed lines, making them suitable for reproducing fine details and intricate illustrations. This technique gained popularity in book illustration during the 19th century and remains valued for its fine craftsmanship and distinctive appearance.