National Galleries of Scotland

Etching

A form of printmaking in which a metal plate is covered with a substance called a 'ground', usually wax, into which an image is drawn with a needle. Acid is applied, eroding the areas of the plate exposed but not the areas covered by wax. The action of the acid creates lines in the metal plate that hold the ink from which a print is made when the plate is pressed against paper under pressure.

Grotesque

A decorative element comprising figures, animals, plants, mythological creatures and architectural elements which are often combined in bizarre configuration. Originating in ancient Rome, such details were revived in the Renaissance following the rediscovery of ancient murals.

Slade School of Fine Art

Part of University College, London, this art college was founded in 1871 with funds from the art collector Felix Slade. Notable students include Augustus and Gwen John, Percy Wyndham Lewis, Stanley Spencer and Ben Nicholson.