mezzotint

n. An intaglio process to make prints in which the image midtones and highlights are drawn on a dark background. A print made using this process.

Notes

A mezzotint plate is usually copper or steel. It is prepared by using a rocker to give it a uniformly roughened surface that accepts ink. A burnisher or other tool is used to create the design by smoothing the surface so that it accepts less ink. The mezzotint was introduced in the 17th century.