Aquafortist

/ˌækwəˈfɔːrtɪst/ noun

Definition

An artist who creates etchings using aquafortis, a dilute nitric acid, to carve designs into metal plates.

Etymology

From 'aquafortis' plus '-ist' (one who practices). This occupational term emerged in the 16th-17th centuries as etching became an established artistic medium.

Kelly Says

Master aquafortists like Rembrandt were absolute wizards at controlling how deep the acid bit into the plate—a few seconds difference could mean the difference between a delicate line and a harsh gash.

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