Non-invasive microanalysis of a written page from the Romanian heritage “The Homiliary of Varlaam (Cazania lui Varlaam)”

Abstract The multi analytical study of historical objects is a complex part from an instrument which can help the restorers to recognize the materials, as well as their state of conservation, facilitating the selection of the appropriate method of conservation and/or restoration. This study concentrates the potential use of non-destructive and non-invasive techniques (optical microscopy, X-ray fluorescence, Infrared microscopy, Raman spectroscopy, as well as some methods used to evaluate the general characteristics, such as surface pH and UV photography) in deciphering the long-gone recipes for paper and inks manufacturing from 17th century Transylvania, multicultural centre of erudition. Beside the information obtained regarding the paper support (surface pH, details regarding the cellulose fibers, as well as potential fillers used for paper manufacturing, as well as the nature of the stains present on the document), the performed study reveals a very interesting detail regarding the inks used, respectively the use of mixed recipes, including more than a single pigment.