Self Portrait Set

October 9, 2005
Copperplate
Etching Proofs
Set of Three
3.75"x1.75"

These three little prints represent the first intaglio etchings that I have attempted since the 1980's.

Soft ground was used as a resist on the copper and Ferric Chloride was used to bite the plate.

I pulled five prints from this plate, but with prints four and five I had some problems with my press and they were ruined. The middle print was over-worked and is light when compared to the other two.

It is interesting to note that when I was writing the text on the plate I was unhappy and removed the wax. After I re-ground the lower section of the plate I scratched the words again and bit the entire plate with acid. The original scratches left a drypoint burr on the plate that can be seen clearly on the top left. But the velvety marks left by the original text faded quickly as I continued to run the plate through the press.