Definition of intaglio
intaglios
1a : an engraving or incised figure in stone or other hard material depressed below the surface so that an impression from the design yields an image in reliefb : the art or process of executing intagliosc : printing (as in die stamping and gravure) done from a plate in which the image is sunk below the surface
2 : something (such as a gem) carved in intaglio
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Recent Examples of intaglio from the Web
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Did You Know?
Engraved or incised work where the design is sunk into the surface is called intaglio, and is the opposite of cameo, where the design is in relief. Intaglio designs are made on gemstones, glass, ceramics, stone, or similar material. It is the most ancient form of gem engraving: the earliest known Babylonian cylinder seals date from c. 4000 bce. The term intaglio is also used to describe printmaking processes in which the design is cut, scratched, or etched into a printmaking surface of copper, zinc, or aluminum; ink is then rubbed into the incisions or grooves, the surface wiped clean, and the paper is embossed into the incised lines with pressure from a roller press. Intaglio processes are the most versatile of printmaking methods, as they can produce a wide range of effects.
Illustration of intaglio
Origin and Etymology of intaglio
Italian, from intagliare to engrave, cut, from Medieval Latin intaliare, from Latin in- + Late Latin taliare to cut — more at tailor
First Known Use: 1644
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Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about intaglio
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