mezzotinting

/ˈmɛtsoʊˌtɪntɪŋ/
verb
  1. To engrave or produce a print using the mezzotint technique.
    • The printmaker spent hours mezzotinting the copper plate for the exhibition.
    • They mezzotinted a series of portraits for the art fair.
    • She learned to mezzotint by watching a master engraver at work.
noun
  1. A method of engraving on metal or copper by scraping and burnishing the surface to create areas of light and shadow, used to produce soft, detailed prints.
    • She studied mezzotinting in art school and now creates her own prints at home.
    • Mezzotinting was especially popular in the 18th century for reproducing paintings.
    • The artist spent weeks perfecting the mezzotinting for the portrait series.
  2. A print made using the mezzotint technique.
    • The gallery displayed a rare mezzotinting of a landscape by a Dutch master.
    • He collected antique mezzotintings of famous historical figures.
    • The mezzotinting on the wall had a velvety texture that drew viewers in.