Relief and intaglio printing are two distinctive techniques in the world of printmaking, each with its unique processes and outcomes.
Relief printing involves carving away parts of a printing plate so that the raised areas are the only parts that will hold ink. Essentially, the artist creates a relief image that stands out from the background. When a sheet of paper is pressed against the plate, only the raised ink transfers onto the paper, resulting in a print where the image is higher than the background. Common forms of relief printing include woodcuts and linocuts.
On the other hand, intaglio printing entails incising or engraving an image into a printing plate. Unlike relief printing, the ink is retained in the recessed lines or areas of the plate. Once ink is applied, the surface is wiped clean, leaving ink only in the engraved lines. When a damp piece of paper is pressed onto the plate under high pressure, the paper squeezes into the incised grooves, which allows for a highly detailed and textured image. Techniques such as etching, aquatint, and engraving fall under intaglio printing.
In summary, the main difference between these two techniques lies in how the ink is applied: in relief printing, the ink is on the surface, while in intaglio printing, the ink sits in the recessed areas. This fundamental difference leads to varied textures, details, and styles in the final prints, reflecting the unique characteristics of each method.