Ars Ana
Engraving on metal, Aquaforte
Engraving on metal, Aquaforte
Size of the metal plate 5 cm x 7 cm
Size of the paper (approx, it differs to every copy ) 14 cm x 21 cm
Author: Ana Gurduza
Unframed
The reality can differ from the image, the colors are always different
Acquaforte refers to the traditional process that creates etched images on metal emerged in the acid.
Acquaforte (meaning ‘strong water’) is the term for acid, a corrosive liquid engraver that is used to cut designs into metal.
An engraving begins by preparing a thin copper plate and covering it with a waxy acid-resistant coating. Using an array of fine steel-tipped tools, the image is carved into the metal matrix, removing the acid-resistant coating in just the etched lines. The plate is then immersed in an acid bath which bites into the unprotected grooves while leaving the coated areas untouched. This phase is timed - shorter or longer acid contact creates different tones and nuances and highlights various planes and depths of the design. Darker lines require longer acid immersion. Once the last dip is complete, the plate is thoroughly cleaned and coated with ink that fills the incised grooves. The ink outside the grooves is cleaned away so that the resulting print will be crisp and accurate. Then the copperplate press is used to transfers the ink from the plate to moistened special paper. This paper is then carefully dried to a smooth, even finish. The etched plate can be used to make a limited number of prints. Eventually it starts to break down and becomes unusable.
That is why it is limited to a series of 50 for copper plate and one of 20 for an aluminium plate.