Question 1

Can I etch the back of a mirror?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you can etch on the back of a mirror. Modern mirrors typically have a reflective layer that is deposited on the back of the glass. If you want to etch the back of a mirror you need to remove the reflective layer, which can be done with an engraving tool or with an etching solution. Shop a range of antique and modern mirrors on 1stDibs.

Question 2

What is etching?

Accepted Answer

Etching is a method of making prints using metal plates onto which a design has been incised by acid.

Question 3

What is vintage etching?

Accepted Answer

Vintage etching is a term that refers to a specific type of print produced between 50 and 100 years ago. Printmakers produced etchings by carving images into a copper plate and then soaking it in an acid bath. Then, they applied ink to the plate and pressed it against paper or another material to create an image. On 1stDibs, find a collection of vintage etchings.

Question 4

What is an original etching?

Accepted Answer

An original etching is a print produced during the first production run of a print series. After making an etching plate, an artist will create a limited number of etchings. Collectively, these prints are the original etchings. They differ from restrike etchings made years later, sometimes after the death of the artist. On 1stDibs, shop a diverse assortment of etchings.

Question 5

What is etched glass?

Accepted Answer

Etched glass is a type of decorative glass which is the result of small cuts made to the glass. The cuts, which appear white, typically form patterns or images.

Question 6

What is a Picasso etching?

Accepted Answer

An etching is created by cutting down a metal plate with chemicals, including acid, to achieve the desired image. The metal plate is then inked and pressed onto a piece of paper. Picasso became fascinated with etchings when he moved to Paris in the early 1900s, and would go on to pioneer new techniques with etchings throughout his career. Shop a selection of Pablo Picasso pieces from some of the world’s top art dealers on 1stDibs.

Question 7

What are the types of etching?

Accepted Answer

There is dry and wet etching.

Question 8

How do you identify an etching?

Accepted Answer

To identify an etching, look in the corners and on the back for an artist's signature or publisher information. Cross-referencing markings with information shared on trusted online resources can allow you to determine the artist. From there, you can browse online and print catalogues of their work to find out the title and date of the etching. In terms of how to tell an etching apart from other types of prints, one telltale sign is the appearance of slightly blurry lines along the edges. Called plate marks, these lines form from the pressure exerted by the plate during the etching process. You may need a magnifying glass to spot the plate mark on a print. If you have any difficulty with the identification process, consider enlisting the help of a certified appraiser or experienced art dealer. Shop a collection of etchings on 1stDibs.

Question 9

What is the difference between a lithograph and an etching?

Accepted Answer

The difference between a lithograph and an etching is that while both are types of prints, they are made using different techniques. With respect to lithography, the image to be printed is drawn or painted on a stone or metal plate with an oil-based substance, such as a greasy crayon or tusche (an oily wash). The stone is then covered with water, which is repelled by the oily areas. Oil-based ink is then applied to the wet stone, adhering only to the oily image. Afterward, the stone is covered with a sheet of paper and run through a press.

Etching is a way of incising lines in a metal plate by first drawing on an acid-resistant coating, or ground, to reveal the metal beneath. The plate is then submerged in acid, which “bites” the lines into the metal plate. The ground is then removed and the plate is inked for pressing.

Find a collection of lithographs for sale on 1stDibs.

Question 10

How can you tell if an etching is original?

Accepted Answer

To tell if an etching is original, first gently run your hand along its surface. An original etching will usually have a slight indentation in the image area left behind by the pressure applied by the plate during the printing process. Next, grab a magnifying glass and view the image up close. On an original, you won't see small dots making up the picture, but many reproductions do display dots due to their printing methods. Finally, look at the signature. Most original etchings will be hand-signed. If the signature is printed on your piece, it may be a reproduction. Consult a certified appraiser or experienced art dealer for an expert opinion on your print. Find a wide variety of etchings on 1stDibs.

Question 11

What is the difference between etching and aquatint?

Accepted Answer

The difference between etching and aquatint is technique. Invented in the 1500s, etching is a way of incising lines in a metal plate by first drawing on an acid-resistant coating, or ground, to reveal the metal beneath. The plate is then submerged in acid, which “bites” the lines into the metal plate. The ground is then removed, and the plate is inked for pressing. Etched lines tend to reveal the movement of the artist’s hand more than a technique like engraving, since the image is created on softer ground. Aquatint, a technique named for its resemblance to watercolor or ink wash, is often combined with etching to create rich tonal variations. It’s a similar process to etching, but the resin ground is more granulated, so the acid handles the metal differently. Different degrees of darkness are created based on the amount of time the plate is in contact with the acid. Find a collection of etchings and aquatint prints on 1stDibs.

Question 12

Why are Rembrandt's etchings so important?

Accepted Answer

Rembrandt's etchings are important because of the influence they had on printmaking. The printing techniques that he employed allowed each of his prints to seem very unique while making it possible for him to mass produce his images. Printmakers that followed utilized the advancements he made in the field to create and distribute their own prints. Find a range of Rembrandt art on 1stDibs.

Question 13

Did Picasso make etchings?

Accepted Answer

Yes, Pablo Picasso made etchings and took that foundation into an exploration of printmaking and the different methods of that medium. Picasso first began working on etchings in the early 1900s, quickly mastering the technique, and then he began expanding and pushing the boundaries to create a unique and signature style. On 1stDibs, find a variety of original artwork from top artists.

Question 14

What is the difference between an etching and a print?

Accepted Answer

The difference between an etching and a print depends on how specific the terms are. Print is a general term for any type of artwork made by transferring an image onto another material, such as paper or fabric. A specific printmaking technique, etching is a way of incising lines in a metal plate by first drawing on an acid-resistant coating, or ground, to reveal the metal beneath. The plate is then submerged in acid, which “bites” the lines into the metal plate. On 1stDibs, find a large selection of etchings and other prints.

Question 15

How can you tell if an etching is valuable?

Accepted Answer

To tell if an etching is valuable, one approach is to conduct research using trusted online resources. The maker, age, image quality, historical significance and overall condition all play a role in determining the potential value of an etching. By seeing how much similar etchings have sold for in the past, you can get a rough idea of how much your piece may be worth. However, experts generally recommend having a certified appraiser or experienced art dealer evaluate prints for a more accurate valuation. Find a wide range of etchings on 1stDibs.

Question 16

How can you tell a lithograph from an etching?

Accepted Answer

To tell a lithograph from an etching, look closely along the edges of the print. Etching is a way of incising lines on a metal plate by first drawing on an acid-resistant coating, or ground, to reveal the metal beneath. Lithography uses a stone rather than a plate. As a result, etchings will usually have a faint imprint or indentation called a plate mark, while a lithograph will not. Researching the artist using trusted online resources may also be helpful, as some printmakers worked exclusively with etchings or lithographs. Find a large selection of lithographs and etchings on 1stDibs.

Question 17

Are original etchings worth anything?

Accepted Answer

Yes, some original etchings are worth something. Original signed prints by Old Masters like Rembrandt and Albrecht Dürer are particularly valuable, as are those made by modern artists such as Paul Klee, Henri Matisse, Martin Lewis and David Hockney. Generally, the artist, age, historical significance, image quality and overall conditions of etchings all contribute to their value. To learn how much your etching may be worth, seek the opinion of a certified appraiser or experienced art dealer. Explore a large collection of etchings on 1stDibs.

Question 18

What is a Venetian mirror?

Accepted Answer

While polished metal mirrors have existed since ancient times, glass Venetian mirrors are thought to have first been produced on the Venetian island of Murano, in Italy, beginning in the 1500s (some research points to 1300 for Venetian mirrors). Set in ornate frames frequently bedecked with gold highlights or floral leaf designs, Venetian glass mirrors were handmade by artisans using refined, expert techniques for royalty and for members of the upper class. By the 17th century, Venetian mirrors were in high demand. Because antique Venetian glass mirrors are still very popular today, there are many knockoffs on the market. Today’s authentic Venetian mirrors are still produced only on the island of Murano.

Question 19

What is a trumeau mirror?

Accepted Answer

A trumeau mirror, which first appeared in France during the 18th century, take their name from the French word for the wall between two windows, which is where they are hung. Typically tall and narrow, they are also called pier mirrors.

Question 20

Can mirrors be shipped?

Accepted Answer

Yes, mirrors can indeed be shipped. The trick to packing them is to have the mirror and frame suspended by packaging, not just wrapped in bubble wrap. You’ll find a large variety of mirrors from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs. And yes, you can even get them delivered.

Mirror With Etching

Early 20th Century Italian Wall Mirrors

Early 20th Century Italian Venetian Octagonal Mirror with Painted Floral Etching

Vintage 1930s French Art Deco Wall Mirrors

Art Deco Smoked Antiqued Venetian Mirror with Reverse Etching & Chain Beveling

Late 20th Century Italian Wall Mirrors

Vintage Pair of Italian Venetian Oval Wall Mirrors with Painted Floral Etching

20th Century American Art Deco Wall Mirrors

Art Deco Framed Mirror with Reversed Etching and Beveled Detailing

Vintage 1940s French Wall Mirrors

French 1940s Octagonal Mirror with Decorative Etching in Giltwood Frame

Antique Mid-19th Century French Louis Philippe Wall Mirrors

French Louis Philippe White Gold Leaf Framed Mirror with Scrafitto Etching

Vintage 1940s Italian Hollywood Regency Wall Mirrors

Magnificent 1940s Venetian Style Mirror with Reverse Etching and Floral Design

Vintage 1950s Italian Cabinets

Italian (Sivelli) dry bar with etched mirrors

Vintage 1940s Italian Wall Mirrors

Venetian Mirror with Copper Mirror Frame

Antique 1840s French Louis Philippe Mantel Mirrors and Fireplace Mirrors

Large Louis Philippe Period Giltwood Mirror with Cross Hatch Etching

Vintage 1940s French Wall Lights and Sconces

Pair of Vintage Etched Mirrored Wall Sconces

20th Century American Wall Mirrors

Large Hollywood Regency Mirror with Etched Border

Vintage 1940s Italian More Mirrors

Small Venetian Mirror

Vintage 1940s Italian More Mirrors

Small Venetian Mirror

Vintage 1940s Italian More Mirrors

Octagonal Venetian Mirror

Vintage 1940s More Mirrors

Small Venetian Style Mirror

Vintage 1940s Italian Wall Mirrors

Nice Venetian Mirror

Antique 19th Century Italian Wall Mirrors

Antique Venetian Mirror

Vintage 1950s Italian Art Deco Wall Mirrors

Venetian Style Mirror

20th Century Wall Mirrors

Round Venetian Mirror with 24K Gold Eglomise Detailing

Vintage 1950s American Wall Mirrors

An Oversized Venetian Mirror

Vintage 1940s French More Mirrors

1940's Full Length Mirror with Criss Cross Detailing

Mid-20th Century Italian Wall Mirrors

Italian Brass "Shield" Mirror

Vintage 1920s Italian Rococo Wall Mirrors

Antique Etched Venetian Mirror

Vintage 1970s American Rococo Wall Mirrors

Glitzy Medium Sized Venetian Mirror

Antique Early 1900s Italian Hollywood Regency Wall Mirrors

Super Glamorous Antique Venetian Mirror

Vintage 1940s Italian Art Deco Wall Mirrors

Round Italian Mirror by AGIS

Vintage 1930s French Wall Mirrors

Pair of Maison Jansen Square Mirrors

20th Century Italian Wall Mirrors

Venetian Mirror

Early 20th Century Italian Wall Mirrors

Vintage Boho Venetian Etched Glass Mirror

Vintage 1940s Italian Wall Mirrors

Venetian Mirror

Vintage 1940s Italian Mid-Century Modern Wall Mirrors

Italian mirror from the 40´s

Antique 1880s French Napoleon III Wall Mirrors

Napoleon III French Etched Gold Leafed Mirror

20th Century More Mirrors

Ebonized Rectangular Mirror

Vintage 1940s American Wall Mirrors

Large Etched Mirror

Antique 19th Century French More Mirrors

Louis Philippe Mirror

Antique 19th Century French Wall Mirrors

Pair of Antique French Louis Phillipe Period Mirrors

Antique 19th Century Italian Rococo Wall Mirrors

19th Century Italian Rococo Style Giltwood Mirror

Vintage 1930s French Wall Mirrors

Reverse Painted Mirror in the Manor of Maison Jensen

Antique 1840s French Louis Philippe Wall Mirrors