Multi - Analytic Study of Oriental Manuscripts in Bosnia and Herzegovina Dating From the 15th - 19th Century

Abstract

The objective of this study was the analysis of materials used in five Oriental manuscripts from Bosnia and Herzegovina dating from the 15th - 19th century. The manuscripts were examined using various analytical techniques ranging from a series of preliminary tests (visual inspection, microchemical tests, thin layer chromatography (TLC), acidity status, UV fluorescence) to Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, X-ray fluorescence (XRF), optical and scanning electron microscopy (SEM-EDS). The obtained results showed that the manuscripts were made using paper, ink and pigments derived mainly from natural sources. The paper was made from either flax fibers or the combination of flax and hemp fibres and was often sized with egg white and alum to improve its quality. Both carbon black and iron-gall inks were used for the main text, whereas vermillion was chosen only for red ink. This research provides a valuable insight into the production techniques used in Oriental manuscripts from Bosnia and Herzegovina during that period. It also represents a template approach for manuscript characterisation and science-based paper conservation.