Which type of pencil is recommended for producing deep, rich blacks?

Charcoal pencils are recommended for producing deep, rich blacks because they are made from a compressed form of charcoal that contains a higher level of pigment compared to other types of pencils. This composition allows for a darker finish and allows the artist to achieve a wide range of tonal values, from soft grays to intense blacks. The texture of charcoal also contributes to the depth of color, making it an excellent choice for artists who require bold contrasts and dramatic effects in their work.

In contrast, graphite pencils are typically valued for their ability to create smooth, precise lines and shades, but they do not achieve the same level of richness in black as charcoal. Colored pencils are designed to provide a range of colors rather than deep blacks, while watercolor pencils can create beautiful washes of color but do not achieve the same intensity of black that charcoal can. Thus, for the purpose of producing deep, rich blacks, charcoal pencils are the superior option.