Identification by raman microscopy and visible reflectance spectroscopy of pigments on an icelandic manuscript

Abstract

The pigments used on the Shard copy of the Icelandic Jonsbok law code (Skar6sbok c. 1360) have been analyzed non-destructively, in situ, by Raman microscopy and reflectance spectroscopy. In all, three historiated initials and c. 15 illuminated initials with associated background painting and embellishments have been examined. Six pigments have been identified by Raman microscopy on the folios studied: vermilion, orpi- ment, realgar, red ochre, azurite and bone white. The pigment(s) responsible for various other green and blue colours have not been identified unambiguously, although the diffuse reflectance spectra of the lighter green and blue pigments appear to derive from verdigris or varia..