Inscriptions may be _Incised_ or in _Relief_, that is, sunk or raised.[127] The _modus operandi_ and the time spent in carving the actual letters are the same in either case, but whereas when the Incised letter is carved there is nothing more to be done, after the carving of the Raised letter there is still the stone surrounding it (_i.e._ the background) to be dealt with, and this may simply be carved smooth,[128] or, if our imagination be strong enough, and our hand have the cunning, it may become under the tool a field of roses and lilies in which the letters are set.
Other things being equal, it becomes a question of economy which form of lettering one will carve, as the necessity of dealing with the background of a Raised Inscription, while more than doubling the opportunities of the carver, at least doubles the time spent in carving.
Raised lettering will show out more clearly than Incised lettering where there is little light. [p404]
Roman Capitals are more adapted for carving in Relief than are Roman small-letters or Italics, which are directly derived from the pen.
Raised lettering is more allied to ordinary carving, while Incised lettering may be thought of as writing in stone. [p405]
_For Incised letters_, a "V" section (1, fig. 217) of about 60° is best for regular use; deeper rather than shallower. The letters may with advantage be cut a little deeper towards the Serifs (see fig. 218).
Although the simple "V" section is the most useful, other sections may be used for large letters (_i.e._ letters more than 6 inches high), or letters in a very fine material (2 & 3, fig. 217).
If the lettering is to be gilded, and the stone will permit of it, Section 4 (fig. 217) is a good one to use. Only the curved part is to be Gilded, and not the small bevelled sides.
_For Raised letters_, the best and most useful section is No. 5; the slightly bevelled sides tell as part of the letter. Experience, and the weathering conditions, will suggest the amount of Relief to be given. For letters 1-1/2 inch high, out of doors, 3/16 inch of relief is ample, and if there be good light 1/8 inch is enough. Excessive relief looks clumsy.
Sections Nos. 6 and 7 are suitable only for large letters; and elaborate sections should as a rule be used only for letters standing alone.