Abstract
Illuminated manuscripts are, in general, the final products of a wise and complex interaction of different competencies. In particular, each manuscript reflects uses and techniques rooted in the historical and geographical traditions of the area of realization. Defining the characteristics and the materials in these valuable artefacts is an essential element to reconstruct their history and allow a more precise collocation and a possible comparison with other works in similar periods and areas. Non-invasive methods, mainly using portable instruments, offer undoubtedly good support in these studies. Recent analyses of an ancient Persian illuminated manuscript, combining multispectral imaging and spectroscopic measurements made with portable instruments (XRF, FORS, micro-Raman, IR-ATR) on selected points, provided new data for an improved understanding of this rare book. This study details the possibilities offered by combining these non-invasive methods for an in-depth understanding of the techniques and practices behind the realization of Middle Eastern illuminated manuscripts and provided new perspectives for multidisciplinary approaches to research in this field.
Highlights
Ancient illuminated manuscripts represent the result of broad, long-lasting collaboration among different competencies
Recent analyses of an ancient Persian illuminated manuscript, combining multispectral imaging and spectroscopic measurements made with portable instruments (XRF, FORS, micro-Raman, IR-ATR) on selected points, provided new data for an improved understanding of this rare book
This study details the possibilities offered by combining these non-invasive methods for an in-depth understanding of the techniques and practices behind the realization of Middle Eastern illuminated manuscripts and provided new perspectives for multidisciplinary approaches to research in this field
Summary
Ancient illuminated manuscripts represent the result of broad, long-lasting collaboration among different competencies. Bookbinders, scribes, and illuminators generally selected materials based on their knowledge [1]. Differences in traditions, historical contexts, and specific geographic areas often influenced the final product. The manuscript was a precious and rare, generally unique artwork. The intrinsic complexity that characterizes illuminated manuscripts describes the diversity of aspects that interest these artefacts from an artistic-historical and scientifictechnical point of view. Non-invasive, portable techniques, developed and applied for the study of pictorial surfaces at larger scales, offer in this sense excellent support for the characterization and comparison of different manuscripts as well as the various materials used in the same manuscript
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