In most modern intaglio prints, a combination of these and other techniques will be found. The engraving is the oldest form of intaglio printing. It was developed in the early 15th century and was strongly influenced by and connected with the craft of the gold and silversmiths. The instrument used to create the image is called a burin or graver. The graver is pushed over the plate at a low angle so that its tip bites sharply into the metal and a shaving is lifted clear.
Most lines start as fine cuts, grow in thickness and taper to a fine point.
This is a typical feature of the engraved line and is quite different from etched or drypoint lines. As in engraving, lines are incised into a metal plate by purely mechanical action. Unlike the graver, which removes the unwanted metal as a fine shaving, the drypoint needle pushes the metal to the side creating a furrow. Burrs are formed on either side of the drypoint line. Ink will adhere to the fragile edges of the burr so that the lines in the print will appear slightly blurred and have the rich texture that is typical of the drypoint.