The process of producing lines, patterns, text, or other linear motifs by cutting, carving, or engraving into a surface.
Incising is the process of producing a line, pattern, inscription, or other usually linear motif by cutting, carving, or engraving into a surface. In sculpture it may be used to articulate hair, drapery, ornament, lettering, texture, or fine descriptive detail.
Unlike modeling a raised form, incising removes or displaces material below the surrounding surface. The character of an incised line depends on the tool, angle, depth, material, and the way light enters the cut.
Etymology
From Latin incidere, “to cut into,” through the verb incise.
Sculptor Notes
An incised line is not simply drawn into stone. Its width, depth, edge quality, and termination all affect how it reads under changing light. A clean incision can remain legible at a distance while still carrying subtle tool character at close range.
References
https://www.getty.edu/vow/AATFullDisplay?subjectid=300053847