intaglio

intaglio (intăl'yō, –täl'–) [key], design cut into stone or other material or etched or engraved in a metal plate, producing a concave, instead of a convex, effect. It is the reverse of a relief or cameo. The term also designates a gem so cut. Seals and signet rings usually bear intaglio designs, so that when stamped upon wax or other plastic substance the impression is in relief. See engraving; etching; printing.

The Columbia Electronic Encyclopedia, 6th ed. Copyright © 2007, Columbia University Press. All rights reserved.

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