Photogravure

Victor Hugo

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W.E.F. Britten - Alfred, Lord Tennyson - St. Simeon Stylites

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Gertrude Kasebier Blessed Art Thou Among Women 1899

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Photogravure steps

Dinnertime LACMA M.2008.40.2223.24

Horse Bouquet galloping, saddled with rider (rbm-QP301M8-1887-631)

Photogravure is a printmaking process where a copper plate is coated with a light-sensitive gelatin tissue which had been exposed to a film positive, and then etched, resulting in a high quality and detailed print. The process combines the fine detail of a photograph with the distinct etching lines of an engraving, making it a unique form of art. Photogravure is known for its high level of detail and rich tones, making it a preferred technique for reproducing images with a wide range of tones and textures.

History

The photogravure process was developed in the 19th century, with significant contributions from Henry Fox Talbot, a pioneer in photographic processes, and Karel Klíč, who refined the process to its modern form. It was initially used for high-quality book illustrations, reproductions of artworks, and photographic prints. Over time, it became a favored medium for original fine art prints and for photographers looking to present their work with depth and richness unachievable with other printing methods.

Process

The process of creating a photogravure involves several steps. First, a copper plate is coated with a light-sensitive gelatin tissue. A photographic negative is then placed over this coated plate and exposed to light, hardening the gelatin on areas exposed to more light and leaving other areas soluble. The plate is then etched in a series of baths with varying concentrations of ferric chloride, which bites into the copper where the gelatin has been washed away, creating the image. The depth of the etch corresponds to the tones in the original photograph, with deeper areas holding more ink and creating darker tones on the final print.

Significance

Photogravure holds a significant place in both the history of photography and printmaking. It bridges the gap between traditional art forms and the then-emerging technology of photography, allowing for the reproduction of photographs with the tonal variation and depth of an etching or engraving. This process has been used by many famous photographers and artists to create works of high aesthetic and archival quality. It is particularly valued for its ability to reproduce the luminosity and subtlety of light and shadow, making it ideal for fine art photography and the reproduction of important historical documents and artworks.

Modern Usage

While photogravure was more commonly used in the 19th and early 20th centuries, it remains a valued technique among artists and printmakers who appreciate its unique qualities. Modern advancements have simplified some aspects of the process, but the fundamental steps remain the same, preserving the distinctive look and feel of photogravure prints. Today, it is often used in limited edition prints and artist books, where the quality and durability of the print are of utmost importance.

See Also

• Printmaking
• Etching
• Engraving
• Photography
• Henry Fox Talbot
• Karel Klíč