What technique is used in Mezzotint art?

Mezzotint is a printmaking technique that is characterized by its unique approach to creating tonal effects. In this technique, an artist begins with a metal plate that is roughened all over using a special tool called a "rocker." This process creates a completely dark surface when inked. The artist then selectively scrapes and polishes areas of the plate to create lighter tones and highlights, allowing for a range of gradient effects from deep blacks to subtle grays. This method stands out because it allows for an extraordinary level of detail and smooth tonal transitions that are difficult to achieve with other techniques.

The scraping and polishing of the roughened surface is essential to mezzotint, as it is what differentiates it from other printmaking methods that rely on incising or carving designs directly into the plate. The ability to gradually build up light from a dark foundation is a defining characteristic of this technique, which is why it has been appreciated for its expressive potential in artworks.