Task 6: Etching

Etching was an artistic process whereupon acid was used to cut into the unprotected parts of metal. In modern etching, other chemicals are used depending on the metal being used for the piece.

In basic etching, a waxy residue known as a ground, was placed on the metal surface, the artist then used his tools - most commonly a needle - to scratch away the wax thus leaving the bare metal exposed. Once the artist is happy with the work, the metal is placed in an acid bath - a mordant (from the French word for biting) - The acid then 'bites' into the metal, giving depth to the scores made by the artist.

The remaining wax is then washed off, and the piece is then inked all over. The ink is then cleaned from the surface leaving only the ink in the etching which the artist created.

The piece is then placed in a high-pressure printing press with a sheet of moistened paper, and the paper in turn sucks up the ink from the etching and creates the desired picture. Several hundred copies could be made before the etching shows any sign of wear.