HSLL Chinese Paper Reference Collection

Type Collection

Summary Description: The collection comprises approximately 120 paper samples from the 19th and 20th centuries. The collection represents a wide geographic distribution, primarily from the mainland China, and highlights the transition from handmade to machine-made paper during this period. They reflect the diversity in paper production based on age, size and materials. The majority of the samples were visually assessed as handmade. The samples were obtained from various commercial sources for the purpose of scientific research. The dates are approximate, especially for those samples obtained from antique shops, unless explicitly written in the document. No detailed information is available regarding the provenance, or historical storage conditions of the samples, but the collection is useful as a source of material samples.

Extent

Statement of Significance: The collection gives the opportunity for a comprehensive understanding of the chemical and physical properties of 19th and 20th century Chinese paper, shedding light on its material composition, stability, and degradation processes. It was collected solely for the purpose of scientific research, including material analysis. This collection is a valuable resource for conservation scientists, archivists, and curators working to preserve Chinese paper-based artefacts in libraries, archives, and museums. The samples have been analysed using various analytical methods and both the samples and the associated data are available for further research. The collection is stored in stable, cold storage conditions. The samples are documented including physical measurements, observations and images, all associated with unique Sample IDs and stored within a digital catalogue.

Access requirements: The collection can be accessed by contacting the person in charge or the HSLL laboratory manager. Access to the collection is evaluated on a case-by-case basis taking into account the validity of the scientific research question and its feasibility. In dealing with destructive sampling requests we adhere to the ICON Ethical Sampling guidance.

Type of users: Professionals, cultural heritage organizations, conservators, and researchers involved in cultural heritage research.

Keywords: Archival Science
Archives
Conservation
Conservation Science
Documentation
Hand-made paper
Historical ink
Ink manufacture
Library
Machine-made paper
Manuscript
Non-destructive technique
Papermaking
Preventive conservation
Reference collection
Restoration

Finding aids: The collection, along with the analytical techniques employed, is comprehensively described in an open-access publication (https://heritagesciencejournal.springeropen.com/articles/10.1186/s40494-017-0158-x).

External link

Name of the web site: Reference Historic Material Collections of the Heritage Science Lab Ljubljana