HISTORY
The history of Conté in Paris is closely linked to the personality of its founder, Nicolas-Jacques Conté, born in 1755, inventor of the pencil. Download the brochure and discover the whole story of Nicolas-Jacques Conté, as well as the invention of the pencil and the Conté square in Paris.
INVENTION OF THE PENCIL
During his fifty years of life, Nicolas-Jacques Conté was a painter, chemist, physicist, balloonist, and inventor. Nicolas-Jacques Conté's historical contribution is undeniable. In 1794, he developed the modern graphite lead, composed of a mixture of clay and graphite, which finally made it possible to grade the hardness of the lead. The pencil manufacturing process he created in 1795 enabled France to produce its own writing and drawing products, at a time when it was under embargo by the English.
BIRTH OF THE CARRES
A few years later, he developed “uncoated pencils” (bare leads) to replace those made from “Italian stone.” He worked to make his colors “fixed and unalterable” in order to meet the expectations of painters. Art pencils and pastels for artists were born. These pencils are the ancestors of today's Carrés.
RANGE EXTENSION
Over the decades, the quality of these products and the expansion of the range have enabled the brand to become a benchmark for artists around the world. Used by the greatest masters as well as amateur artists and fine arts students, Conté à Paris Pastel Pencils offer the widest variety of techniques and effects possible for drawing, sketching, and pastel art.
FRENCH BRAND
Today, Conté à Paris is the only French brand manufacturing pastel pencils. It embodies the spirit of invention, the pursuit of excellence, and a genuine passion for art, welcoming professionals and enthusiasts alike with open arms.
DRAWING REFERENCE
Located across the Seine from Notre Dame, the Charbonnel boutique offers much more than just a box of pencils or pastels: it offers a piece of history, heritage, inventiveness, and commitment to excellence from Conté à Paris. Every pencil and pastel bearing the Conté à Paris name ensures the highest quality to bring your artistic vision to life.