aquatint, aquatinta

& a. [In Ger. aquatinta ; Fr. aqua - tint a , aqua -tinte; Lat. aqua water, and Ital. tint a = a dye, a tincture.] A. As substantive : A kind of engraving so called from its resemblance to water-colour drawings. The most approved method of practising it is to first trace the outline of the proposed picture on a copper-plate by means of an etching needle or other sharp instrument. Next, the etching ground is removed, and the plate thoroughly cleaned with whitening and water. The plate is then placed in a flat tin or earthen ve el in an inclined position, and on it is poured a solution of resinous matter, prepared in rectified spirits of wine. When dry, the design is drawn upon it with the bursting ground [BURSTING-GROUND], and the plate is varnished and dried. Some clear water is then applied to it, and finally, the design is bit into the copper by two succe ive applications of dilute nitric acid. B. As adjective: Pertaining to the kind of engraving now described. method of producing the aquatint ground." Rees: Cyclop ., ii., " Aquatinta ."