| Metalpoint |
|
A metal stylus, when drawn over an abrasive
surface, leaves sparse fragments, which produce a faint grayish line. This
becomes more visible as the particles oxidize. Using a stylus of lead,
bismuth, silver, or gold, the draftsman could draw on paper coated with
bone-dust or chalk (calcite), which was usually tinted. Since it is
difficult to distinguish the metals by simple examination, metalpoint is the
most satisfactory term. However, reliable scientific methods of identifying
the metal have been developed in recent years.
The technique enjoyed a limited revival in the
late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries. For example,
Alphonse
Legros was especially partial to it for portraits and for studies of
works by the old masters. |
|
|
|
by Michael Miller |
