An intaglio printmaking technique that produces tonal images similar to watercolor paintings, using acid and etching to create areas of tone.
From Italian 'acquatinta' (aqua tint), derived from Spanish 'agua' (water) and 'tinta' (ink), named for its watercolor-like appearance despite being an etching process.
Aquatint became famous through Goya's powerful political prints in the 1700s—the technique could create dramatic tones and shadows that seemed impossible in printmaking before!
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