An aquatint is an intaglio process and a form of etching using a copper or zinc plate. An engraved plate is dusted with particles of acid resistant powdered resin. The particles are adhered to the metal plate with heat. This produces tiny mounds or granules of hardened resin. When dipped in acid, depressions are eaten into the plate around the granules. The depressions hold the ink. The artist can create various tones from gray to black by varying the length of time areas of the plate are exposed to the acid. The result is a watercolor or ink wash effect giving the print its aquatint name.
