Burin

Burin is the most ancient engraving procedure, which gets its name from the tool used to chisel the metal. This technique dates back to the first half of the 15th century and it derives from the technique used on metals by goldsmiths, who used the burin to engrave various sheet metals and then filled the carved lines with a black mixture called nigellum (niello).
With the evolution of inks, it was noticed that these left their mark on damp paper and the first burin impressions were created. Subsequently, the engraved metal matrices were printed on paper by means of a cylinder press. Only then the burin technique was really created.
This tool (burin) is made of a thin tempered steel shaft, whose end is transversally cut and sharpened. This shaft can be square, triangular, lozenge, etc. The other end is fastened in a half-sphere wooden handle, which adapts to the hand of the engraver, allowing to apply a constant pressure.
To engrave, the plate is placed on a leather cushion filled with sand, since, in presence of curves, the plate is rotated with left hand while the burin remains still. This tool leaves a very clear mark, which is the distinctive feature of this technique.
This procedure is mainly used for making stamps and banknotes.