Relieftrükk

Relieftrükk, or relief printing, is a printmaking process in which ink is applied to the raised surfaces of a matrix. The artist carves away the non-image areas from a block of wood or linoleum, leaving raised areas that carry ink. When paper is pressed onto the inked relief, the image transfers. This method contrasts with intaglio, where ink sits in recessed lines, or lithography, where the image is formed on a flat surface by chemical means.

Common techniques include woodcut, in which the image is cut from a wooden block; and linocut, which uses a linoleum block. Reduction prints, where multiple colors are printed from the same block by carving away sections as colors are added, are also used. Tools include gouges, knives, and a brayer to apply ink; printing may be performed with a press or by hand with a baren or spoon.

History and development: relief printing originated in East Asia with woodblock printing and spread to Europe in the late medieval period, becoming a primary method for book illustrations before the rise of newer techniques. In the 20th century, linocut gained popularity among artists for its bold graphic quality and ease of use, being embraced by movements and individual printmakers alike.

Materials and process: artists work with blocks of wood or linoleum, carving away the negative areas. Ink is rolled onto the raised surface, excess ink is blotted, and paper is pressed onto the block to produce the print. Multiple editions are common, and color prints are usually achieved with separate blocks or careful reduction techniques.

Applications: relieftrükk is used for fine art prints, posters, book illustrations, and artist books, valued for strong contrast, tactile texture, and straightforward, graphic imagery. Notable practitioners include early woodcutists and later linocut artists who helped define its modern use.