In printmaking, which technique uses a carved design on wood to transfer ink to paper?

In printmaking, which technique uses a carved design on wood to transfer ink to paper?

• A. Oculus
• B. Benin Bronzes
• C. Cristallo
• D. Woodcut

Answer: (D)

Woodcut is a printmaking method in which a design is carved into the surface of a wooden block. The remaining raised areas are inked, and when paper is pressed onto the block, the ink is transferred to the paper, creating the image. This relief technique relies on carving away the negative areas of the design so the ink stays on the raised portions. The other terms don’t describe a process where ink is transferred from a carved wood surface to paper: Oculus refers to a circular opening or eye-like motif; Benin Bronzes are metal plaques or sculptures from the Benin culture; Cristallo denotes a type of crystal or glass.

Woodcut is a printmaking method in which a design is carved into the surface of a wooden block. The remaining raised areas are inked, and when paper is pressed onto the block, the ink is transferred to the paper, creating the image. This relief technique relies on carving away the negative areas of the design so the ink stays on the raised portions.

The other terms don’t describe a process where ink is transferred from a carved wood surface to paper: Oculus refers to a circular opening or eye-like motif; Benin Bronzes are metal plaques or sculptures from the Benin culture; Cristallo denotes a type of crystal or glass.