Which material is commonly used for a plate in intaglio printmaking?

• A. Aluminum foil
• B. Copper or zinc sheet
• C. Plastic sheet
• D. Wood block

Answer: (B)

In intaglio printmaking, the plate is a metal surface that is etched or engraved to create recessed grooves that hold ink. The material needs to be a metal that can be cut and still withstand the pressure of the printing press. Copper or zinc sheets are commonly used because they respond well to etching and engraving: copper is traditional and durable, giving fine detail, while zinc is easier to cut and cheaper. The ink sits in those recessed lines and transfers to paper under high pressure.

Aluminum foil is too thin to hold durable, precise grooves; a plastic sheet isn’t suitable for traditional intaglio because it doesn’t accept the etching/inking process in the same way; a wood block is used for relief printing, where the raised surface carries ink rather than recessed grooves.