In printing, which item is a carved block or plate used to transfer ink?

In printing, which item is a carved block or plate used to transfer ink?

• A. Pastel
• B. Negative
• C. Oculus
• D. Matrix

Answer: (D)

In printing, the carved block or plate that holds the image to be printed is called the matrix. This term covers woodblocks, metal plates, and etching plates—the master surface from which multiple impressions are made by transferring ink onto paper. Ink is applied to the matrix and then pressed onto paper to create the print. Pastel is a drawing medium, not a printing surface. Negative is a photographic term referring to an inverted image, not a printing plate. Oculus is an architectural or anatomical term for an eye or circular opening, unrelated to printmaking.

In printing, the carved block or plate that holds the image to be printed is called the matrix. This term covers woodblocks, metal plates, and etching plates—the master surface from which multiple impressions are made by transferring ink onto paper. Ink is applied to the matrix and then pressed onto paper to create the print.

Pastel is a drawing medium, not a printing surface. Negative is a photographic term referring to an inverted image, not a printing plate. Oculus is an architectural or anatomical term for an eye or circular opening, unrelated to printmaking.