What defines relief printing in the context of printmaking techniques?

Relief printing is defined by the technique of printing from raised surfaces of a block. In this process, an image is carved into a flat surface, leaving the areas that will not receive ink at a lower level than those that form the image. The raised areas are then inked and pressed onto paper or another substrate, transferring the image in the process. This technique can be traced back to ancient methods and is widely recognized for its distinctive aesthetic qualities, such as bold lines and textures.

In contrast, other printmaking methods involve different processes: using a screen to transfer ink pertains to screen printing, carving into a metal plate relates to intaglio techniques, and engraving involves intricate designs created with pointed tools on surfaces. Each of these methods has its unique characteristics and processes, but they do not align with the principles of relief printing, which specifically emphasizes the raised areas as the source of the printed image.