mezzotint

[ˈmɛzəʊtɪnt]

mezzotint Definition

• 1. a print made from a copper plate that has been partially roughened and then smoothed to produce areas of light and shade
• 2. a method of engraving on copper or steel by first roughening the surface with a rocker and then working with a scraper to produce light and shade

Using mezzotint: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "mezzotint" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

• Example

  The museum has a collection of mezzotints from the 18th century.

• Example

  The artist used mezzotint to create a dramatic effect in the print.

• Example

  Mezzotint is a challenging technique that requires a lot of skill and patience.

mezzotint Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for mezzotint

• engraving
• etching
• lithography

Phrases with mezzotint

• mezzotint rockers

  tools used to roughen the surface of a copper plate for mezzotint printing

  Example

  The artist carefully selected the right mezzotint rocker for the job.

• mezzotint scraper

  a tool used to smooth the roughened surface of a copper plate for mezzotint printing

  Example

  The artist used a mezzotint scraper to create the highlights in the print.

• mezzotint roulette

  a tool used to create a fine pattern of dots on a copper plate for mezzotint printing

  Example

  The artist used a mezzotint roulette to add texture to the background of the print.

Origins of mezzotint

from Italian 'mezzo' meaning 'half' and 'tinta' meaning 'tone'

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Summary: mezzotint in Brief

Mezzotint [ˈmɛzəʊtɪnt] is a printmaking technique that involves partially roughening a copper plate and then smoothing it to create areas of light and shade. It is a challenging method that requires skill and patience, often used to create dramatic effects in prints. Mezzotint involves the use of tools like mezzotint rockers, scrapers, and roulettes to create texture and patterns on the plate.