Question

How is a mezzotint piece created? Why is it unique and important to Intaglio printmaking?

Answer 1

Mezzotint’s tone is created using a special tool, like with drypoint. As the tool moves along the metal surface, it roughs the surface and creates different levels of grooves. When ink is applied to the surface, the varying levels of grooves provide the illusion of various tones and half-tones, while still using the same color of ink. This method is one of the best representation of monochromatic art.