Yozo Hamaguchi (1909-2000) is internationally known for reviving the art of mezzotint printmaking, a technique invented in the 17th century. This type of engraving, also once known as "black manner," involves scraping images onto copper or steel plates with a pre-roughened surface. Artists could control the shade of ink printed through the depth of indentations onto that surface. Hamaguchi experimented not only with color mezzotints, but also with modern compositions.