Which printmaking process involves carving into a surface and ink in the lines?

• A. A method using a screen to transfer ink
• B. Lithography
• C. A method using a raised surface
• D. Intaglio

Answer: (D)

Intaglio is a printmaking process in which lines are carved into a surface, and ink is held in those recessed lines. After the surface is inked and the excess is wiped away, paper is pressed onto the plate with strong pressure so the ink in the grooves is transferred onto the paper. The result is lines that define the image because the ink sits in the carved recesses. This method contrasts with raised-surface (relief) printing, where ink sits on the raised areas and is transferred from those surfaces, and with lithography, which is planographic and relies on oil-and-water repulsion rather than engraving. It also differs from screen printing, which uses a mesh to transfer ink through openings.