A technical dictionary of printmaking, André Béguin.
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interpretative engraving
Interpretative engraving is best explained in opposition to original engraving (i.e. engraving done entirely by the artists who both draw and prepare the plate). Interpretative prints are made by professional engravers who copy an artist's drawing. This term can also be used in comparison to the term "reproductive engraving", which is also the opposite of original engraving. However, whereas reproductive engraving tries to stay as close as possible to the original drawing (fac-simile work being practically a photographic copy), interpretative engraving is much freer as the term itself suggests. Despite these nuances, the term interpretative engraving is gradually replacing the term "reproductive engraving", especially in specialized commercial circles.
[fac-simile, engraving, imitative engraving, original, reproduction]
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