EAU FORTE Meaning and
Definition
-
"Eau forte" is a French term that literally translates to "strong water" in English. It refers to a specific printmaking technique that involves creating etchings on a metal plate using acid or strong water, usually nitric acid.
In this technique, an artist first applies an acid-resistant ground or wax coating onto a metal plate, typically made of copper or zinc. Then, using a point or needle, they scratch or incise their desired image or design into the coated plate, exposing the bare metal beneath. The plate is then immersed in an acid bath, which etches the exposed lines or areas, deepening or widening them. The longer the plate stays in the acid, the more pronounced the etching becomes.
Afterward, the plate is cleaned and ink is evenly spread over its surface. Excess ink is wiped away, leaving ink only in the etched grooves. Finally, a dampened sheet of paper is placed on top of the plate, and both are run through a printmaking press to transfer the ink onto the paper, resulting in a reversed and mirrored image of the original etched design.
"Eau forte" prints are known for their delicate lines, rich tonal qualities, and sharp contrasts. This technique allows artists to achieve fine detail and texture, resulting in distinctive and expressive prints. The term "eau forte" can also be used more broadly to refer to any print made using the etching process, including prints created with different variations or additional techniques. Overall, "eau forte" is a traditional and versatile medium in printmaking, valued for its ability to produce intricate and refined artworks.
Common Misspellings for EAU FORTE
- wau forte
- sau forte
- dau forte
- rau forte
- 4au forte
- 3au forte
- ezu forte
- esu forte
- ewu forte
- equ forte
- eay forte
- eah forte
- eaj forte
- eai forte
- ea8 forte
- ea7 forte
- eau dorte
- eau corte
- eau vorte
- eau gorte
Etymology of EAU FORTE
The word "Eau forte" comes from French, where "eau" means "water" and "forte" means "strong". In the context of printmaking, "Eau forte" refers to a technique in which acid is used to incise lines or create tonal areas on a metal plate, usually made of copper. The plate is first coated with a ground (often composed of wax) and then a needle or other tool is used to create the desired design by removing some of the ground. The plate is then submerged in an acid bath, which etches the exposed areas. The term "Eau forte" likely originated from the use of strong acid during the etching process.
Similar spelling words for EAU FORTE
- ferret away,
- small-fruit pheasant's-eye,
- con-way freight.
Infographic
Add the infographic to your website:
