- published: 27 May 2010
- views: 139525
Etching is the process of using strong acid or mordant to cut into the unprotected parts of a metal surface to create a design in intaglio in the metal (the original process—in modern manufacturing other chemicals may be used on other types of material). As an intaglio method of printmaking, it is, along with engraving, the most important technique for old master prints, and remains in wide use today.
In pure etching, a metal (usually copper, zinc or steel) plate is covered with a waxy ground which is resistant to acid. The artist then scratches off the ground with a pointed etching needle where he wants a line to appear in the finished piece, so exposing the bare metal. The échoppe, a tool with a slanted oval section, is also used for "swelling" lines. The plate is then dipped in a bath of acid, technically called the mordant (French for "biting") or etchant, or has acid washed over it. The acid "bites" into the metal, where it is exposed, leaving behind lines sunk into the plate. The remaining ground is then cleaned off the plate. The plate is inked all over, and then the ink wiped off the surface, leaving only the ink in the etched lines.
[1st verse:]
In the days of fairy tales, most any wish was granted
Granted by some fairy brave
Let's suppose a fairy rose in fairy clothes from head to toes
And granted us the wish we'd crave
Would you wish for diamonds, or would you wish for pearls
Would you wish to rule the land and sea
Would you wish a crown to rest upon your golden curls?
The maiden sweetly answered 'Not for me'
[Refrain:]
I'd wish for a night in June
A silv'ry moon real soon
A moon that makes you want to spoon
And softly croon love's tune
Then a tree that I could trust
A bench that holds just two
Then I'd wish for Cupid's loving dish
And then I'd wish for you
[2nd verse:]
Why should I profess to sigh for precious pearls and diamonds
When my ev'ry sigh means you?
All the gold the world may hold its wealth untold, I would unfold
To hold a place that just holds two
Hold a place that holds a face, that holds a case of bliss
And that case of bliss would hold you too
Such a place would make me trace upon your face a kiss
The fellow answered, 'Here's just what I'd do: