What is a primary characteristic of Conté crayons?

The development of Conté crayons in the 1800s is indeed a primary characteristic that distinguishes them from other drawing materials. These crayons were created by Nicolas-Jacques Conté in 1795 as a means to improve the quality of drawing materials available at the time, particularly for artists and sketching. Conté crayons are made from a blend of graphite, clay, and pigments, which allows them to produce a unique and refined quality in line and shading that artists appreciate.

The historical context gives insight into their formulation and usage in art, which is essential for understanding their significance. The advancements in the quality of art materials during this period reflect broader movements in the art world, making the historical aspect of the crayons particularly relevant.