More than 400 years of papermaking history has its beginnings on February 27, 1584. On this day, Duke Erich issued a proclamation that papermaker Merten Spiess may establish a paper mill to supply his Highness and his domain with good handmade paper. Demand followed reputation. Soon many European houses of nobility, including King George III of Hanover, whose monogram is still used today as part of the watermark, became regular customers. In 1886 the new owner, Carl Hahne, gave the mill the name Hahnemühle. The mill has maintained its good name with consistent excellence and the highest standards of craftsmanship. Hahnemühle mouldmade papers are made of high quality cellulose and/or rags. They are lightfast and resistant to deterioration over centuries. Hahnemühle papers are admired throughout the world.