All about Ingres d’ARCHES paper!
When it comes to quality art papers, Ingres d’ARCHES MBM® paper’s prestigious heritage and outstanding qualities put it in a class of its own. This paper appreciated by artists the world over is the paper of choice for many art techniques.
The history of Ingres d’ARCHES MBM® paper
Ingres D’ARCHES MBM® paper is named after the famous Neoclassical artist Jean-Auguste-Dominique Ingres, who was known for his elegant, meticulously drawn works. It was from Ingres, who was extremely sensitive to materials and curious to try out many different drawing and watercolour techniques, that ARCHES® drew its inspiration when it created its Ingres d’ARCHES MBM® paper in 1869. Made by traditional methods on a cylinder mould, this 75% cotton, acid and OBA-free paper guarantees outstanding durability and mechanical strength, which are the hallmarks of ARCHES® papers. lt was the favourite paper of 19th French artists such as Georges Seurat, who used it for his charcoal drawings. It remains a reference in many fine arts schools around the world.
The properties of Ingres d’ARCHES MBM® paper
Ingres d’ARCHES® paper is a laid paper with a very distinctive texture. It has a delicately ribbed texture with horizontal “laid lines” and vertical “chain lines”. This gives it the ability to retain particles of dry media, which is ideal for drawing techniques It is available in 130 gsm 65 x 50 cm sheets with two deckle edges available also in 105 gsm 23 x 31 cm pads glued on one side, which are more practical to carry around.
Watermarked sheet of Ingres d’ARCHES MBM® with deckle edges
Another essential feature of Ingres d’ARCHES® paper is its lightly grained surface, which captures the light and accentuates contrasts, whilst also facilitating transitions between shades.
It is gelatin-sized on the surface which makes for a stronger paper and limits ink absorption and bleeding. These are properties that are important for ink drawing and calligraphy. The nib glides across the paper to produce perfect lines.
The ideal art techniques for Ingres d’ARCHES MBM® paper
Ingres d’ARCHES MBM® paper is particularly appreciated for drawing techniques. It is the paper of choice for dry media such as coloured pencil, charcoal, graphite, sanguine pencil, chalk and pastel. The paper’s texture allows pigments to adhere easily, to give soft, nuanced effects.
Sanguine on Ingres d’ARCHES MBM® paper
Ingres d’ARCHES MBM® laid paper drawing pad
Sheets of Ingres d’ARCHES MBM® paper and pastels.
Sheets of Ingres d’ARCHES MBM® paper and charcoal.
It is much appreciated for studies and preparatory sketches. Its ability to resist erasing without damage allows artists to rework their drawings until they achieve the effect they want.
It is also used for calligraphy, pen and ink drawing, felt pen and gouache. Although it is not specifically designed for water-based techniques, its gelatin surface sizing limits its absorbency meaning it can take a moderate quantity of wash, which gives artists a certain amount of flexibility in their creative work.
Ingres d’ARCHES MBM® paper, ink and calligraphy.
It is also used for more specific techniques such as marbling, letterpress printing, blind embossing and binding.
Ingres d’ARCHES® paper is a partner of artistic creation that resonates with centuries of tradition and know-how. Whether it is for subtle pencil drawings or expressive charcoal sketches, this paper offers a unique artistic experience and has inspired generations of artists in their creative quest. For those looking for a professional grade paper, Ingres d’ARCHES MBM® remains a timeless choice, one that is faithful to its heritage while meeting the modern requirements of today’s artists.
