Written by the Fiveable Content Team โข Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 examโขWritten by the Fiveable Content Team โข Last updated September 2025
Definition
Lithography is a printmaking technique that involves creating an image on a flat surface, usually a stone or metal plate, using oil-based ink or crayons. The image is then transferred onto paper through the use of pressure.
Related terms
Etching: A printmaking technique where lines are incised into a metal plate and then inked and pressed onto paper.
Woodcut: A relief printing technique where an image is carved into wood and then inked and pressed onto paper.
Serigraphy: Also known as screen printing, this technique involves forcing ink through a fine mesh screen onto paper to create an image.