H. Schmincke & Co – A Brief History

Founded in 1881 by chemists Hermann Schmincke and Josef Horadam, Schmincke has upheld its motto "Meliora Cogito" (I strive for the best), producing the finest artists' colours. Their journey began with MUSSINI® resin oil colours, followed by the patented HORADAM® watercolours in 1892, used by renowned artists like Emil Nolde and Oskar Kokoschka.

Over the years, the company expanded its range to include pastels, gouache, acrylic, and airbrush colours. It remained a family-run business, relocating from Düsseldorf to Erkrath in the 1970s. The brand's iconic owl logo has evolved but still reflects its heritage. In 2017, Schmincke enhanced its HORADAM® watercolour range to 140 colours, later adding 40 super-granulating shades in 2022. Known for its meticulous four-stage pouring process and sustainable production, Schmincke maintains its reputation for unmatched quality.

Still committed to its founding principles, Schmincke remains a leader in artists’ colours, proudly Made in Germany and distributed in over 65 countries.

Schmincke Horsham Aquarell Supergranulating Colours

Artist Anna Zadorozhnaya talks us through Schmincke's super-granulating range of artists' watercolours which are crafted by combining at least two granulating pigments resulting in a special textured finish different to that of traditional watercolours.

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OUR FAVOURITES

Schmincke Horadam Aquarell Metal Tin Half Pan Assorted Colours Set of 48 Schmincke Horadam Aquarell Metal Tin Half Pan Assorted Colours Set of 48
Schmincke Schmincke Horadam Aquarell Metal Tin Half Pan Assorted Colours Set of 48
£257.50 RRP: £316.44
Schmincke Horadam Aquarell Watercolour Metal Tin with Leather Bag Half Pan Assorted Colours Set of 18 Schmincke Horadam Aquarell Watercolour Metal Tin with Leather Bag Half Pan Assorted Colours Set of 18
Schmincke Schmincke Horadam Aquarell Watercolour Metal Tin with Leather Bag Half Pan Assorted Colours Set of 18
£295.00 RRP: £356.45
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Schmincke Pastel MALKASTEN Pastels Wooden Box Set of 60 Schmincke Pastel MALKASTEN Pastels Wooden Box Set of 60
Schmincke Schmincke Pastel MALKASTEN Pastels Wooden Box Set of 60
£245.00 RRP: £295.90
Schmincke Horadam Aquarell Super Granulation Half Pan Assorted Colours Set of 18 Schmincke Horadam Aquarell Super Granulation Half Pan Assorted Colours Set of 18
Only at Cass Art
Schmincke Schmincke Horadam Aquarell Super Granulation Half Pan Assorted Colours Set of 18
£104.45 RRP: £157.32
Schmincke Horadam Gouache in Metal Tin 15ml Assorted Colours Set of 10 Schmincke Horadam Gouache in Metal Tin 15ml Assorted Colours Set of 10
Schmincke Schmincke Horadam Gouache in Metal Tin 15ml Assorted Colours Set of 10
£95.00 RRP: £114.79

FAQs

What makes Schmincke paints unique?

Schmincke is renowned for its commitment to quality, using only the finest pigments and binders. Their HORADAM® watercolours undergo a unique four-stage pouring process for maximum brilliance, while MUSSINI® oil colours are formulated with natural resins for exceptional luminosity.

Are Schmincke watercolours professional quality?

es, Schmincke HORADAM® watercolours are a top choice for professional artists worldwide. With a high pigment load, excellent lightfastness, and a sustainable production process, they deliver outstanding performance and longevity.

What is Schmincke super-granulating watercolour?

Schmincke’s super-granulating watercolours combine multiple granulating pigments to create stunning textures and depth. These unique colours react beautifully on textured paper, making them ideal for expressive and atmospheric painting.

Which Schmincke range is best for beginners?

Schmincke Akademie® watercolours are excellent choices for beginners, offering high-quality pigments at a more affordable price. For those looking to invest in professional materials, HORADAM® watercolours and MUSSINI® oils provide industry-leading performance.

What is the difference between Schmincke HORADAM® and Akademie® watercolours?

HORADAM® watercolours are Schmincke’s professional-grade range, featuring high pigment concentration, excellent lightfastness, and a unique four-stage pouring process for rich, rewettable colours. Akademie® watercolours are a more affordable alternative with high-quality pigments, ideal for students and hobbyists.

EXPLORE THE FULL SCHMINCKE RANGE

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