RAMAN MICROSCOPY - APPLICATION TO THE IDENTIFICATION OF PIGMENTS ON MEDIEVAL MANUSCRIPTS

The identification of pigments, in particular the inorganic ones, used to illuminate medieval manuscripts is most effectively carried out by Raman microscopy. The merits of the technique in this context in comparison with others are surveyed; the specificity and sensitivity of a Raman spectrum, the fact that it can be used in situ, and the high spatial resolution (similar to 0.5-1.0 mu m) attainable are all important positive features of the technique. The correct identification of pigments is of great importance in art conservation, and may also assist in the dating of a manuscript. Examples are given of manuscripts which have recently been studied and the pigments identified by Raman microscopy.