The conservation of medieval manuscript illuminations: A chemical perspective
Maria João Melo|Paula Nabais|Rita Araújo|Tatiana Vitorino
Abstract Illuminated manuscripts are the most abundant and well-preserved surviving medieval cultural artefacts. Created to contain sacred texts, their visual structure allows reader identify divisions delight in beautiful ornamentation iconography. Western European were written on parchment, which was main writing support Middle Ages prior rise of paper production fourteenth–fifteenth centuries. Highly functional, durable animal skins also used bookbinding (covers) have been crucial preservation illuminations. These illuminations make wonderful use form colour. This chapter focuses recent advances molecular characterization these colours, produced by Europeans, challenges inherent analysing materials that intrinsically heterogeneous. We then discuss how may reveal conservation conditions extend our analysis parchment iron gall inks. Finally, we address possibilities for this flourishing field research. In short, show analytical methods used: – To understand illumination colours made what palette defines them; predict original why certain remained excellent condition, preserving both adherence luminosity, while others changed over centuries; assess deterioration (paints, inks) with goal determining potential restoration measures could be taken, after careful consideration.
Physical sciences reviews