Saturday, May 9, 2009

Graphic Arts - Etchings


In a previous article I wrote about the early technique of graphic art known as lithography. This was the process using a limestone slab and a greasy crayon. This technique was mastered by many artists who were known to pay strict attention to detail in their work.

Another early technique used by artists to create an image was etching. This was an easier way of producing an image than previous methods. The first etching was in 1513.

The etching process uses acid and a plate with indentations. This allows the artists to create lines almost as freely as if drawing with a pencil on paper. Etching became popular beginning in the mid-nineteenth century.

Rembrandt was considered one of the greatest etchers. One of his best-known etchings was “Six’s Bridge”.

This medium later became a popular method for illustrating books and other commercial purposes.

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