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DictionaryintaglioRecessed engraving
noun / adjective

intaglio

in-TAL-yoh/ɪnˈtæljəʊ/

Artwork made using a design cut below a surface.

The copper intaglio holds ink in the recessed design cut by the engraver.

An engraver uses a burin to cut a recessed design into a copper plate, with an inset showing ink held below the surface.
Etymology
inItalianin, into
+taglioItalianto cut

The pieces mean “cut into”: the design is incised into the surface rather than carved in relief. That inward cutting is the defining image behind this engraving method.

In context

Victoria and Albert Museum10:33
These two objects are Bloodstone intaglios, so an intaglio is an image that is incised or engraved or cut into the surface of a stone.
A brief history of powerful gemstone amulets | V&A

More examples

  • Ink settles into the recessed lines of an intaglio plate.
  • She lifts the paper to reveal a crisp intaglio print.
  • The ring holds a tiny intaglio carved with a bird.

Forms

intaglio · intaglios

Similar words

engraving
Broader term for cut designs and prints made from them.
etching
Specifically uses acid to create recessed lines for printing.