Stippling is a word that is commonly used in art to describe a technique that involves creating patterns or textures using small dots. The spelling of the word is fairly straightforward, with the first syllable "stip" pronounced as /stɪp/, and the second syllable "pling" pronounced as /plɪŋ/. The word is derived from the Latin word "stipare," meaning to pack or stuff, which is fitting given the way that stippling involves filling in spaces with tiny dots.
Stippling is a drawing technique that involves creating a pattern and texture by adding small dots or marks to a surface, typically in a systematic or organized manner. This technique is commonly used in various art forms, such as painting, pen and ink drawing, and tattooing.
In stippling, an artist applies a series of dots or tiny marks to create the illusion of shading, depth, or texture. By varying the size, density, and placement of these dots, an artist can create different effects, ranging from smooth gradients to rough textures.
Stippling allows artists to achieve a high level of detail and precision in their artwork. It can be used to depict various subjects, including landscapes, portraits, and still life compositions. The technique can be time-consuming as it requires meticulous attention and patience, but it can result in stunning and intricately detailed artworks.
Stippling has been employed by artists throughout history, with notable examples found in the works of artists like Georges Seurat and Albrecht Dürer. It continues to be a popular technique in contemporary art, often used to add depth and dimension to illustrations, portraits, and architectural renderings.
Overall, stippling is a versatile and intricate drawing technique that relies on the strategic placement of small marks or dots to create texture, shading, and depth in artworks.
In histology, a speckling of a blood-cell or other structure with fine dots when exposed to the action of a basic stain, due to the presence of free basophile granules in the cell protoplasm.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
A mode of engraving by dots, in imitation of chalk-drawings, each dot being a group of smaller dots.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "stippling" comes from the Latin word "stipula" which means "straw" or "stalk". It originally referred to a technique in drawing or engraving where small dots or strokes were used to create shading or texture. It is believed that the term "stippling" may have derived from the resemblance of these dots to the small points or fibers on a straw or stalk. Over time, stippling has become a commonly used term in the art world to describe this specific technique of creating textures or shading with small dots.