HSLL Tibetan Paper Reference Collection

Type Collection

Summary Description: A collection of approximately 90 Tibetan paper samples dating from 19th to 20th centuries, was purchased from antique stores for the purpose of scientific research. Most of the samples were used as writing supports and contain Tibetan script. The collection includes a diverse range of materials such as straw, ramie, bamboo, mulberry, hemp and wood pulp, reflecting a variety of manufacturing processes. No detailed information is available regarding the provenance, date or historical storage conditions of the samples.

Extent

Statement of Significance: The collection is important due to its focus on 19th–20th-century Tibetan manuscripts, which offer valuable insights into Tibetan papermaking traditions. It was collected solely for the purpose of scientific study, including material analysis. These manuscripts are significant for the understanding the material properties, degradation patterns, and preservation of Tibetan books. The collection supports heritage institutions, scholars, and conservators in protecting and maintaining these culturally and historically valuable artefacts through the scientific analysis of their material history and manufacture. The samples have been analysed using various analytical methods and both the samples and the associated data are available for further research endeavours. Following the analyses, the collection is stored in stable 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
Degradation
Documentation
Fibre analysis
Historical ink
Ink manufacture
Lamination
Library
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://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s10570-023-05631-9).

External link

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