This writing implement incorporates a core comprised of a mixture of clay, graphite, and often, a dye. The inclusion of the dye, typically aniline-based, distinguishes it from standard graphite pencils. The marks created by this type of pencil, when moistened, transfer easily to another surface, facilitating the creation of duplicates of handwritten or drawn material.
Its significance lies in its ability to efficiently reproduce documents before the widespread adoption of modern copying technologies. This characteristic proved invaluable in administrative, clerical, and artistic settings, streamlining workflows and enabling wider dissemination of information. Historically, it offered a cost-effective and relatively simple method for creating multiple versions of original texts or drawings.
