incisori

Incisori is the Italian plural of incisore, referring primarily to individuals who practice engraving. An incisore creates designs by incising lines into a hard surface such as metal, wood, or acetate to produce images through printmaking techniques like engraving, etching, drypoint, aquatint, mezzotint, or wood engraving. The term covers artists, craftsmen, and engravers who work in studios, publishing houses, medal and coin production, or jewelry settings.

Historically, engraving developed in Europe in the 15th century as a means to reproduce images and text. Incisori played a key role in disseminating works of art, maps, and scientific illustrations, with prints circulated widely through print shops and publishers. In scholarship, they are identified by workshop, period, or technique.

In modern practice, incisori may work in traditional techniques or combine intaglio with contemporary processes. The profession requires precision, a thorough understanding of materials, and proficiency with tools such as burins, etching needles, and presses. The term is generally reserved for the artist-practitioner, though it may also refer to professional engravers in various industries like minting, jewelry, or signage.

Note: In Italian, incisori is not used to refer to dental incisors; that term is incisivi.