What year did conte crayons get developed?

Conte crayons were developed in the late 18th century, specifically around 1795, by the French artist Nicolas-Jacques Conte. He created these drawing tools in response to the need for a more versatile medium that could be used for both drawing and shading. Conte crayons are made from a mixture of clay and graphite, which gives them their unique texture and rich color, ideal for sketching and rendering.

The invention of conte crayons played a significant role in the history of art materials, as they provided artists with a new way to achieve different effects in their work. Although they are often associated with the 1800s due to their popularity and the various styles that emerged during that time, the actual development occurred in the late 1700s. This historical context supports the understanding of conte crayons as a tool that bridged different artistic movements, aiding both academic and expressive practices in art.