The technique of engraving
The development of the technique of line engraving at the beginning of the 15th century took its inspiration from a technique that had been used by gunsmiths and goldsmiths since the 14th century. This is why the first experiments around 1430 were done on copper. This technique with copper engraving became more widespread a few decades later and reached its golden age throughout Europe in the 17th century.

How do artists go about creating an engraving?
he engraver spreads varnish on a metal plate, usually copper. Once it is dry, the artist cuts into the plate with a pointed instrument called a burin, then covers it with acid. The parts covered with varnish are protected, so the acid only penetrates and attacks the copper in the furrows. The plate is then covered with ink and pressed onto a sheet of paper so that the design engraved and etched by acid is impregnated. The design printed onto the paper is the reverse of the design on the plate. The reason the technique of engraving has been so successful is because it adds nuance and delicacy to the drawing, as well as making reproduction and circulation possible.

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