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burin
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burin
Quick Facts
Also called:
graver
Related Topics:
Engraving
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burin
burin

burin

engraving tool
Also known as: graver
Written and fact-checked by
Britannica Editors
Encyclopaedia Britannica's editors oversee subject areas in which they have extensive knowledge, whether from years of experience gained by working on that content or via study for an advanced degree....
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History

burin, engraving tool with a metal shaft that is cut or ground diagonally downward to form a diamond-shaped point at the tip. The angle of the point of a particular tool affects the width and depth of the engraved lines. The shaft of the tool is fixed in a flat handle that can be held close to the working surface; it has a wide rounded end for bracing against the palm of the hand. The point is guided by thumb and forefinger.

This article was most recently revised and updated by Amy Tikkanen.