KOH-I-NOOR

Is it merely coincidence that the KOH-I-NOOR building stands here, a silent testament to the legacy of a brand synonymous with creativity? The KOH-I-NOOR, more than just a building, embodies the spirit of a company that has been inspiring artists and fueling imaginations for centuries. Its story begins in 1790, not here in Prague but in Vienna, when Joseph Hardtmuth, an architect by profession, laid the foundation for what would become a global empire of art supplies. The company, initially focused on earthenware, soon made a pivotal breakthrough: the invention of a unique pencil lead crafted from a blend of kaolin and graphite. This innovation, patented in 1802, set the stage for the KOH-I-NOOR’s rise to prominence. Fast forward to 1848, the company, now under the helm of Joseph’s sons, Karl and Ludwig, relocated to České Budějovice in Bohemia. It was here that the legendary KOH-I-NOOR 1500 pencil was born, a pencil so exceptional that it was named after the famed Koh-i-Noor diamond. This wasn’t just marketing; the 1500 pencil, with its 17 gradations and revolutionary yellow cedarwood casing, set a new standard for quality and craftsmanship. The KOH-I-NOOR brand quickly gained international acclaim, winning awards in major cities across the globe. The company’s iconic elephant trademark, registered in the late 19th century, became a symbol of quality and innovation recognized worldwide. Today, the KOH-I-NOOR legacy lives on, not just in the art supplies it produces, but also in the enduring spirit of creativity that it represents. This building may not house the factory or the workshops, but it stands as a reminder of the power of innovation and the enduring impact of a simple pencil.