The term zinc plate in art describes a flat zinc sheet which artists use as their printing surface for etching and engraving techniques. The method requires cutting a design into the zinc plate with different tools to make grooves that will capture ink during printing. During the 19th and 20th centuries zinc plates became popular because they offered both long-lasting qualities and lower costs compared to other metal options. Renowned printmakers Rembrandt and Francisco Goya demonstrated zinc plate printmaking's flexibility and superior quality through their historical works. Zinc plate printing experienced its greatest popularity in the 19th century as improvements in printing technology allowed artists from different backgrounds to use this method more easily. Modern artists such as Jim Dine and Susan Rothenberg have expanded zinc plate printing by incorporating contemporary methods and artistic expressions into this classical printing technique. The physical attributes of zinc plates enable artists to produce complex details and elaborate textures which enhances the depth of their prints. Zinc plates serve as a significant asset in printmaking by connecting historical traditions with current practices through their lasting artistic charm and potential.