Engraving is the highest form of printmaking known.

Real engraving is cut with a burin or graver into the surface of metal, usually steel or copper, in a series of lines and or dots that simulate the play of light modulating the surface of the subject. Hand engraving on steel is a completely sustainable process although very rarely performed today because of the long apprenticeship and painstaking exactness required.

What's the difference between real, hand engraving and photo-engraving? In both the ink "stands proud" on the surface of the paper and there is a "bruise" on the back. Photo-engraving is a mechanical process and the art and letters used in it are mediated by a computer or machine. Real hand engravers use simple tools (called a graver or burin), no software or computer is used to make the art or the letters. The tool polishes the metal as it makes cuts in the surface of the metal, so the ink is actually burnished by the press and reflects the maximum amount of light rendering the finest impression. So, each piece maintains the discrete imperfections made by the hand of the engraver, this is the charm and appeal of real engraving.