Copperplate engraving covers a variety of techniques whose common feature is that the image is composed of hollows in the surface of a copper plate. Such techniques are also known as intaglio engraving.
Copperplate engraving techniques can be direct (line engraving, dry-point and mezzotint, for example) in which case the image is incised directly into the metal using a sharp tool, or indirect (etching, aquatint, for example) in which case the image is formed by acid biting into the surface of the metal.

Line engraving was developed in the 15th century and was derived from techniques used by jewellers. Etching developed slightly later, in the early decades of the 16th century.

Both techniques reproduce the subject by the use of engraved lines whose curves, thickness and depth vary according to the form to be reproduced. Hatching (in the form of parallel lines) and cross-hatching (in which the lines criss-cross) are used to create effects of light and shade.

The mezzotint technique, which was introduced in the middle of the 17th century, is used to reproduce different shades of grey without the use of lines and hatching.
All of these techniques share the same printing method: the plate is inked all over then wiped clean leaving the ink only in the hollows of the image. It is then placed in contact with the paper and passed between two rollers under strong pressure.