The history of writing ink production has a long tradition in Dresden, the capital of Saxony. Its beginnings date back to 1826, when August Leonhardi developed the first alizarin ink in his ink factory, which he successfully patented in 1855. 

After the Second World War, VEB Bürochemie Dresden took over production and supplied the entire territory of the former GDR with robust everyday inks under the brand name "Barock". Its legal successor, Barock Bürobedarf GmbH, continued the ink business after reunification, but was forced to file for bankruptcy in 2011. In order to keep the ink production in Saxony, the current company Octopus Fluids was founded together with a former chemist.

We are proud to continue the legacy of Barock inks and bring new life to this traditional brand with innovative collections.

The tradition of Barock Inks lives on

With our Barock ink collections, we take you on a journey through time. Each series captures the spirit of a decade of the 20th century – expressed in harmoniously coordinated colours that unite classic values with modern needs. True to the long Barock tradition, these inks are reliable companions for everyday writing: presented in the classic glass bottle, free of unnecessary embellishments, yet offering outstanding writing qualities.

Each colour flows smoothly from the pen, dries quickly on paper, resists bleeding, and creates an elegant script with subtle shading.

Our first collection, Barock 1910, is dedicated to the Art Nouveau era. Artists of this period sought harmony between people and their surroundings – an idea reflected in bold, nature‑inspired tones. Our Barock fountain pen inks Umbra, Jade, Marine and Caviar evoke this connection, while the deep grey Anthracite captures the harsh daily life shaped by factory work.

The following collection, Barock 1920, opens the door to the glittering world of the Roaring Twenties – an age of artistic awakening and the refined elegance of Art Deco. Six vivid colours embody the optimism and energy of this era: Sepia recalls the patina of old photographs, bold Cobalt Blue radiates confidence, and golden‑yellow Charleston reflects the sparkle of nights on the dance floor. Erika, a smoky violet with soft pink nuances, adds a creative accent, while Mint, with its fresh lightness, and vibrant Coral mirror the joie de vivre of the time.

In 2025, we were especially pleased to unveil an exclusive special edition: the Barock Limited Edition 2025 “Blue”.
Created to mark the restoration of the historic Barock neon sign – ceremonially re‑lit on 2 July 2025 – this edition was produced in strictly limited quantities. Its deep blue, with a delicate reddish undertone, echoes the once again glowing sign – a subtle homage to the living tradition at the brand’s historic site. The collector’s seal over the glass bottle safeguards authenticity and integrity. Since this ink was produced only in 2025, it remains a rare and exceptional highlight for collectors and enthusiasts alike.

We invite you to explore the world of Barock inks – from historic collections to special editions – and to experience how we continue to interpret history and the present in ever‑new shades of colour.