Etching (intaglio) is a printmaking technique in which an image is incised into a metal plate, typically copper or zinc, using acid. The process begins by coating the plate with a protective ground, which the artist scratches or draws on to expose the metal. The plate is then immersed in acid, which corrodes the exposed areas, creating grooves. After cleaning, ink is applied to the plate, wiped off the surface, and the plate is pressed onto paper to transfer the image. Etching produces fine, detailed lines and tonal variations, and multiple prints can be made from a single plate.