Why do metal graphic prints often have a heavily embossed surface?

In the context of metal graphic printmaking, the heavily embossed surface of a print is primarily a result of the specific construction of the printing plate. Unlike traditional intaglio methods, where designs are created by making incisions into a flat surface, the metal graphic method—originated by Rolf Nesch—involves building up the design by cutting out metal shapes and soldering them onto the plate surface.1

Because these plates are constructed in deep relief, they require specially prepared presses to print, as the high relief forces the paper into a three-dimensional form during the printing process. While standard intaglio printing inherently involves embossing the paper into incised lines under high pressure, the extreme relief of metal graphic plates creates a much more pronounced, heavily embossed effect. Some contemporary artists further explore this by using shallow paper bas-reliefs to emphasize the interplay of light and shadow.12