ISLAPAP · Understanding the Material Culture of Islamic Paper and Inks

Understanding the Material Culture of Islamic Paper and Inks

The technology of Islamic papermaking has not yet been historically analysed and scientifically investigated. Therefore, the ISAPAP project aimed to address two main problems in the study of the material culture of Islamic paper as follows: Firstly, the study of previously untranslated mediaeval treatises to gain insights into the extensive collection of Arabic primary sources from the 8th to 19th centuries that mention recipes for Islamic papermaking. This task requires translation, interpretation and a comprehensive understanding of the often-obscure terminology for hidden recipes and techniques found in Arabic mediaeval texts. Secondly, the characterisation of Islamic paper, which was carried out using scientific analytical methods such as HPLC and Raman spectroscopy on the reference collections of Islamic paper from the University of Ljubljana in Slovenia and Ain Shams University in Egypt to determine the raw materials used in papermaking, such as natural dyes. The research into the material culture of Islamic paper is important for the society for several reasons: • Understanding the material composition of Islamic paper is crucial for the preservation of cultural heritage. Islamic manuscripts, documents and artworks often rely on paper as a medium, and research is helping to develop conservation methods to ensure their longevity. • Islamic paper is an important medium for recording historical and cultural information. The study of its materials enables scholars and historians to gain insights into the history, society, and intellectual contributions of Islamic civilisations. It contributes to a more accurate interpretation of historical documents and artefacts. • Knowledge of the material properties of Islamic paper helps conservators to develop appropriate conservation and restoration techniques. This is important to prevent deterioration over time and maintain the integrity of important cultural and historical documents. • The material culture of Islamic paper is interwoven with the cultural practises, technological progress, and economic conditions of the Islamic world. The research helps to understand the cultural context of papermaking, trade, its importance in Islamic societies and its role in the dissemination of knowledge. The ISLAPAP project focussed on three main research objectives: • To conduct archival and historical research on previously untranslated Arabic primary sources and texts, with a focus on the materials and techniques of Islamic papermaking. In addition, to publish a critical and evidence-based overview of the history of Islamic papermaking and ink production for the period of the second millennium. • The development of analytical scientific methods for the characterisation of historical Islamic paper artefacts. In addition, the historical reference collection of Islamic paper at UL will be characterised and analytical methods developed that can be applied to real objects. • The application of the developed analytical characterisation methods to original Islamic manuscripts in the University of Ljubljana Historical Reference Collection of Islamic Paper and in the Ain Shams Collection in Cairo.

Текст от CORDIS, на английски · Данни: CORDIS, © Европейски съюз