Block printing is a type of printing where the image is carved into a wooden or linoleum block. The block is inked and then pressed onto paper to create the print. This method was popularized in China during the Tang Dynasty (618-907 CE) and later spread to Europe in the 14th century.
Other printing methods include relief printing, intaglio, and planographic printing. Relief printing is where the raised areas of the image are inked and then pressed onto paper. This includes woodblock prints, letterpress, and linocuts. Intaglio is where the recessed areas of the image are inked and then pressed onto paper. This includes etchings, engravings, and mezzotints. Planographic printing is where the entire surface is evenly coated with ink or wax before being pressed onto paper. This includes lithography and screen-printing.