Aquatint is an intaglio printmaking technique that works by using acid to etch tonal areas into a metal plate, primarily utilizing powdered rosin to create varying shades.
Aquatint is a printmaking method that allows artists to create areas of tone, rather than just lines, on a metal plate (usually copper or zinc). Like etching, aquatint uses the application of a mordant (acid) to etch into the metal plate. However, the way the acid bites the plate is different.
Here's a breakdown of the process:
- Preparing the Plate: A metal plate is prepared, typically cleaned and degreased.
- Applying the Ground: Instead of covering the entire plate with a solid acid-resistant ground and drawing through it with a needle (as in line etching), aquatint uses powdered rosin (resin) to create a tonal effect. The powdered rosin is dusted evenly over the plate.
- Heating the Plate: The plate is gently heated. This melts the rosin particles, causing them to adhere to the plate and form tiny, acid-resistant dots. Between these dots, small areas of bare metal are exposed.
- Etching with Acid: The plate is then immersed in an acid bath. The acid bites into the exposed metal areas between the melted rosin dots.
- Creating Tone: The depth of the etch determines the tone. Areas that are etched for longer will be deeper and hold more ink, resulting in darker shades. Areas that are etched for shorter periods will be shallower, holding less ink and appearing lighter. The artist can apply acid-resistant stopping-out varnish to areas they want to remain light (or white) before or during the etching process.
Comparison to Etching:
| Feature | Etching | Aquatint |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Tool | Needle to scratch lines | Powdered rosin (resin) for tonal areas |
| Resist | Solid ground scratched away for lines | Melted rosin dots creating acid-resistant areas |
| Effect | Creates lines and textures | Creates tonal areas and washes |
| Acid Use | Bites into lines drawn through ground | Bites into metal exposed between rosin dots |
By manipulating the size and density of the rosin dots, the etching time, and the application of stopping-out varnish, artists can achieve a wide range of tonal values, from light grays to deep blacks, giving aquatinted prints a look similar to watercolor washes or ink drawings.
