As one of the world’s most renowned fine art paper brands, Arches is celebrated for its unmatched quality, texture, and durability. For over five centuries, it has been the trusted choice of artists, printmakers, and photographers who demand perfection. Made in France using 100% cotton fibers and traditional cylinder mould techniques, Arches paper embodies the perfect blend of heritage craftsmanship and modern innovation. Today, it remains the undisputed reference for artists — a symbol of excellence, authenticity, and timeless artistry.
History
Founded in 1492 in the Vosges region of France, Arches has perfected the art of papermaking for more than five centuries. From its earliest years, Arches distinguished itself by its superior craftsmanship, supplying fine paper for royal decrees, literary works, and artistic creations. Through centuries of dedication, the mill perfected traditional papermaking techniques — a meticulous process that continues to define its identity today.
During the 18th and 19th centuries, Arches became the paper of choice for Europe’s great artists and thinkers. Its resilience, surface quality, and archival permanence set it apart from all others. Great artists such as Édouard Manet, Edgar Degas, Paul Cézanne, Claude Monet, Vincent van Gogh, Henri Matisse, Raoul Dufy, Pablo Picasso, Georges Braque, Marc Chagall, Joan Miró, René Magritte, Salvador Dalí, Pierre Soulages, Zao Wou-Ki, Roy Lichtenstein, Bernard Buffet, Andy Warhol, and Pierre Alechinsky — among many others — produced some of their major works on Arches paper. Their choice bears witness to the outstanding quality and permanence of Arches paper.
Today, more than 500 years since its founding, Arches continues to manufacture its paper in France, preserving the same artisanal methods while integrating modern environmental and quality standards. Each sheet reflects a lineage of craftsmanship that has shaped the course of art history. From watercolour and printmaking to contemporary mixed media and photography, Arches remains the Rolls-Royce of paper — a trusted choice for artists and creators who demand nothing less than perfection.