In the opinion of contributors to this topic; What constitutes best engraving ?
O.M
What engraving is best is subjective as it is a matter of taste. Some really love the classic Purdey Rose and Scroll, some don't. Some love deep relief, some don't. Some worship high quality banknote quality pictures, some don't.
What I believe can be quantified as best is 100% coverage, in other words all metal surfaces covered with some type of engraving.
Further that best engraving has some density of coverage. An example of what I mean by this might be to compare a Purdey Rose and scroll which requires a large amount of time because lines or dots per inch is high (if it was printed) vs less detailed B grade engraving on a Fox. This does not mean one is more beautiful than the other just that technically the one engraving style requires more time and skill to achieve.
In terms of pictures or relief when engraved the actual depiction is more realistic in best engraving than more cartoonist in lesser quality. I.E. The ducks look like ducks. The quail look like quail. I caveat to say sometimes Cartoons are engraved on a gun and if done deliberately as in bank note style that might still be considered best engraving.
While I agree that understatement in engraving can be beautiful too. For me best engraving is 100%, highly detailed, if pictures used-then realistic, and overall balanced, proportional, and without obvious errors.
