CHAPTER- 2

CONSERVATION AND PRESERVATION OF MANUSCRIPTS

2.1 INTRODUCTION
India passed through the ages of speaking, drawing and painting,
each extending over hundreds or even thousand of years, and thus, it
was by a series of natural steps that writing grew out of drawing. With
the gradual enlargement of range of writing and its use, different type
of writing materials such as, leaves, barks, stones, metals, wood, etc.
were discovered. According to the availability of material as well as
nature and the purpose of writing, the writing materials changed from
time to time. 1 The knowledge was preserved in both oral and written
form for the future generations. Manuscripts are the original sources of
human history available on various kinds of media like stones, clay
tablets, palm leaves, metal leaves, barks, animal skin, cloth, paper, etc.
Manuscripts are life-blood of history.
The study of manuscripts reveals the social, cultural, historical,
economic, artistic and aesthetic changes that have occurred in the
course of development of our civilization2. Thus, collecting and
preserving the manuscripts is preserving the intellectual heritage of
mankind. These manuscripts available in different libraries,
sadhuderas, religious institutions, etc. are deteriorating day by day.
Manuscripts require special attention and care for the reason of their
importance as well as fragile nature. If due attention is not given for the
conservation of manuscripts, there is then every possibility that our

1 Datta, B. K. (1970). Writing material through the ages and introduction of paper. In Libraries
and librarianship of ancient and medieval India (pp. 104-106). New Delhi: Atma Ram
and sons.

2 Saini, M. L. (1969). Manuscripts literature in Indian languages. ILA Bulletin, 5(1), 6.

37
cultural heritage and nation's collective memory available in the form of
manuscripts may disappear.

2.2 MANUSCRIPTS
The word manuscript is derived from the medieval Latin usage ‘manu’
meaning ‘by hand’ and ‘scribere’ meaning ‘to write’3. Thus, any book or
document written by hand is called manuscript.
According to Harrod’s Librarians Glossary, “Manuscript is a document
of any kind which is written by hand or text of a music or literary composition
in hand written or typed script form and which in that form has not been
reproduced in multiple copies.”4
Manuscripts are original sources of human history available on various
kinds of media like stones, clay tablets, palm leaves, metal leaves, barks,
animal skin, cloth, paper, etc.
In the ancient days, knowledge and experience were recorded and
preserved for the benefit of future generations. In India, writing was done on
walls, foot steps and pillars of temples, stones, bricks, metal sheets, silk and
cotton cloths, wooden boards, terracotta boards, bamboo chips, birch bark ,
leaves of palm tree, etc.5
The studies of manuscripts are often confined to matters written by
hand on wood, paper, leather, wax, sheets of metal, etc.

2.3 MAJOR FORMS OF MANUSCRIPTS IN INDIA

Three major types of manuscripts found in India are:
• Palm leaf manuscripts
• Birch bark manuscripts

3 Brown, L. (Ed.). (1993). Manuscript. In The new shorter oxford english dictionary: On
historical principles (3 rd edition) (Vol. 1, p. 1691).Oxford: Clarendon Press.

4 Ray, P. (Comp.).(2005). Harrods’ librarians glossary and reference book (10th edition).
England: Ashgate,p.445.

5 Datta, B.K. (1970). op.cit., p.105.

38
 Paper manuscripts

2.3.1 PALM LEAF MANUSCRIPTS

Before the advent of paper, palm leaves were mostly used for
writing in South Asian countries, particularly, the whole of India. A
number of palm leaf manuscripts are available in various libraries in
India. The leaves of palm trees were used as writing material because
palm tree grew abundantly in India and South Asian countries. Palm
leaves were the cheapest and the most easily available material for
writing. Moreover, palm leaves have a reasonably long life and high
durability, provided they are treated well and are maintained carefully.6

Fig. 2.1 Palm Leaves Manuscript

6 Meher, R. (2009). Tradition of palm leaf manuscripts in Orissa. Orissa Review, January,43-
46. Retrieved May 15, 2010 from http://www.orissa.qov.in/e-
maaazine/Qrissareview/2009/Jan/enqPdf/43-46.Pdf

39
 There are many varieties of palm tree. However, the leaves of
only a few have been used for writing. The most widely used were7:

• Borassus flabellifer Linn (Palmyra palm)

• Corypha umbraculifera Linn (Talipot palm, Fan palm)
• Corypha taliera Roxb

Processing of Palm leaves

Palm leaves need to be processed in special manner in order to
make them fit for writing. Several processing methods prevailed in the
country. At some places palm leaves were first dried, next boiled or
soaked in water, again dried, and finally polished with stones or conch-
shells and cut to the proper size.8ln some parts of South India, fresh
leaves were dried in the shade and then gingili oil was applied to make
the surface smooth. In other areas of South India, the tender palm
leaves were hung for several days in kitchen where smoke was
emitted. Afterwards the leaves were cleaned and used for writing9. In
Orrisa after giving smoke treatment to palm leaves in the kitchen and
cleaning them, turmeric paste was applied and later on were used for
writing.10

7 Sah, A. (2001). Mission save art heritage -3: Save palm leaf manuscript heritage. Lucknow:
iNTACH, pp. 6-7.

8 Buhler, G. (1904). Writing materials, libraries and writers. Indian Antiquary, 33 ,93.

9 Mandal, S., & Maiti, S. K. (2005). Scientific analysis of traditional indigenous methods of
manuscript preservation. In Anupam Sah (Ed.J, Indigenous methods and manuscript
preservation (pp. 107-109). New Delhi: National Mission for Manuscripts.

10 Padhi, B. K. (1974). Preservation of palm leaf manuscripts in Orissa. Conservation of

Cultural Property in India, 7, 63-65.

40
2.3.2 BIRCH BARK MANUSCRIPTS
In India, before the advent of paper some times in the 10th century
birch bark was used for writing purpose. The use of birch bark was continued
till the Mughal period.11 Birch bark is composed of several layers, each of
which is very thin, almost like a tissue paper. It is normally a very light teak-
12
brown in colour on one side and brownish white on the other.

Fig. 2.2 Birch Bark Manuscript

11 Suryawanshi, D.G. (2000). An ancient writing material: Birch-bark and its need of

conservation. Restaurator, 21, 2.

12 Agrawal, O P. (1984). Conservation of manuscripts and painting of South-East Asia.

London: Butterworth, p.13.

41
There are number of species of birch tree such as:
• Betula luta : The yellow birch
• Betula lenta L.: The black birch
• Betula papyrifera : The white or paper birch

Processing of Birch-Bark
The birch is a moderate-sized, deciduous tree growing to a height of
about 4600 m (14000ft.) in the Himalayas. The inner bark of the tree was
used for writing. For removing the bark from the tree, two circular incisions
were made quite through the bark several feet from each other. Two vertical
incisions were then made on opposite sides of the tree after which a wooden
wedge was introduced by which the bark was easily detached.13 The bark was
dried after being peeled off from the tree. Oil was then applied over it and it
was polished. Finally, it was cut to a suitable size and kept between two
wooden covers for protection.14

2.3.3 PAPER MANUSCRIPTS

It is difficult to point out the exact period when paper became known in
India, but it is widely believed that it happened sometime in the 10th century or
11th century. 15 Paper after its introduction in India soon became the most
popular carrier for writing. The use of paper brought a great revolution in the
art of writing. There were two techniques of paper making:
• Handmade process
• Machine made process

Suryawanshi, D.G. (2000).op.cit.,4.

14 Agrawal, O. P. (1984). op.cit., p.16.

15 Agrawal, O.P., & Barkeshli, M. (1984). Conservation of books, manuscripts and paper
Documents . Lucknow: INTACH, p.4.

42
 Fig.2.3 Paper Manuscript

GURU GRANTHA SAHIB

Gurumukhi

#>.*!*{**«**''v*r*A*n*dr*ti4*>(?n ___
,**.; hifrt**&«xy*' v‘ J*J r, y( rfll va> *ft*W *fiV^4
i, ^MHtMtviy-i*****!^^*^**?*
#S?f<S«rlh
rfe-vwawM "'ri^rvflvfbFFAn
tt*c6w'A**rr$e
vrip^ ^
ir^iffci4f>»pr«^oprt»^»i yifrfte n*ftft>fay*
****** wr+'W
i nfTirfBmaiiiM i
f*X\rfai{w *«*r7fr«np

w^wtraw*^ ft* iA'tljhfrrfrm %^AjniXS^*Vl&J)'*!<$

t'W^rrvMt v
3 rreTf iriftftitNhrftN&Hr *j*,ti*
f ^rnriyyarrf^'^'.a--1 > t itnwsw"^
‘rrtftf^r wry* yr m rftf*Hvfrn*ltarift%gE»gqpN4| «'VV*
Vflr j *to*»
^wrofrvwr»ij» *nnrxve*$ w*ffft*wpr JlTMV ? y^rrrNr?^l^#»»
ftf. wWgH^Fi
&tofl9Q9fbmnik /j7^y#T/t»f3/thrsr5w ^ <r tTf*
«**#**‘f#*«?***^&f$7frim>r7j^F?'fwrfryvr ’^H
^ •# fj^»v u ssiarf^r
?•'*'^**n5 jfrffjkjlty■; *r?f'.i*»fjR^Jt.r-«y
^/,rjrvyr^)< i wp*W># W'»t IMS* *#» ,t»^34*yRT««

Fig.2.4 Laminated Paper Manuscript

43
Paper Making Process
The main material used for the paper making is cellulose. In early
days, the important raw materials were cotton, mulberry, reeds and bamboo,
flax, jute, etc. All the different materials were purified and made into pulp by
chemical or mechanical means. After the pulp was ready it was thoroughly
washed with fresh water. It was then suspended in water filled in small tank or
tub and scooped out in the form of sheets with the help of moulds which were
of several types like woven mould, laid mould, metal wire mould. After
removal from the mould the sheets were allowed to dry. Wet sheets were
brushed against smooth wall of marble. After this, sizing of paper was done to
prevent ink from running. Finally, finishing of the paper was done by
burnishing with an agate stone of horn.16

2.4 MATERIALS FOR WRITING MANUSCRIPTS

The general name of an instrument for writing was lekhani which
includes the stylus, pencils, brushes, reed and wooden pens. Crow-quills
were also formerly used for writing very small character for amulets, but never
for ordinary manuscripts.17 Pieces of reed, bamboo or wood, cut after the
manner of pens, were used in all part of India where the use of ink prevailed;
all the existing ancient manuscripts on palm leaves and birch bark probably
had been written with such pens.1 different types of inks were used for
writing.
• Carbon ink
• Iron -gall
• Ordinary ink

16lbid.,pp.7-9.

17 Mitra, R.L. (1948). A report on the manuscripts in Indian repositories. The Indian Archives,
2(1), 28.

18 Buhler, G. (1904). op.cit.,97.

44
 Carbon ink was possibly the earliest known ink used for writing
manuscripts. It was prepared by mixing lamp black with a solution of glue or
gum. 19
Iron-gall ink was another type of ink used for writing manuscripts. It
was prepared by dissolving an iron salt, like ferrous sulphate and glue or gum
in a liquid extract of galls from oak trees soaked in water.20
The ordinary ink used for writing pothis was of two kinds: one fit for
paper, and the other for palm-leaves. The former was made by mixing a
coffee- coloured infusion of roasted rice with lamp black, and then a little
sugar was added to it, and sometimes the juice of a plant called kesurte
(Verbesina scandens) was also added. Occasionally, acacia gum was added
to give gloss to the ink, but this practice was not common, sugar was held
sufficient for the purpose. The ink for palm-leaf consisted of the juice of
kesurte, mixed with a decoction of alta. It was highly esteemed, as it sinks into
the substance of the leaf and could not be washed off. Both the ink never
fades, and retains their gloss for centuries.21

2.5 TECHNIQUES OF WRITING MANUSCRIPTS

There were two main techniques of writing on palm leaf:
• By incising with a pointed stylus
• By writing with pen or brush as on paper
Incising with the stylus was common method of writing. Two methods
were adopted for writing. In one method the stylus was held in the right hand
at a fixed place on the leaf and the leaf, held in left hand, was moved
backward and forward to make the incisions. In another method the leaf was
placed at a fixed place and the stylus was moved to make the incisions.

19 Prajapati, C.L. (1997). Archivo- library materials-Their enemies and need of first phase of

conservation. New Delhi: Mittal publication, p.55.

20 Gopi, N. (2005). Story of ink. Kriti Rakshana, 1(2), 12-14. Retrieved February 10, 2009 from

http://www.namami.org/Kriti%20rakshana 7vol/2/pdf/final%20newsletter%20 single.pdf.

21 Mitra, R.L. (1948).op.cit.,34-35.

45
 In the method for writing with a brush or pen, the writing was done in
the same manner as on paper.

2.6 PRESERVATION AND CONSERVATION OF MANUSCRIPTS

Generally, the two terms ‘Preservation’ and ‘Conservation’ are used
synonymously. Technically, these two words have different connotations
though they are related to each other. Preservation generally means keeping
an object from harmful effect such as loss, destruction and the like. It is the
process in which all actions are taken to retard deterioration of the manuscript
or to prevent damage to manuscripts. It involves controlling the environment
and conditions of use; and may include treatment in order to maintain
manuscripts, as nearly as possible, in an unchanging state. Whereas,
conservation is the process in which all actions are aimed at the safeguarding
of manuscripts for the future. The purpose of conservation is to study, record,
retain and restore the intervention. Conservation includes examination,
documentation, preventive conservation, preservation, restoration and
reconstruction. Conservation focuses on three basic aspects, namely
examination, preservation and restoration.22
Manuscripts are often old and preserve texts which are otherwise lost
or readings which are forgotten. Therefore, they need special care and
attention in order to be preserved for the future generations. Manuscripts had
been considered precious treasures is alluded to in the old saying
“Patamerinum etatu kavitel” which means do not ignore the manuscripts even
if the text is stored in the mind23. The processes of preservation and
conservation are applied to safeguard physical and historical integrity of
manuscript. They increase longevity of the integrity of manuscripts.

22 Bodhke, P.S., & Nandurkar, K. N. (2003). Conservation of digital resources. In H. K. Kaul &
B. B. Das (Eds.), NACLIN, 14-17 October 2003 (pp. 170-175). New Delhi: DELNET.

23 Samuel, J.G.(1994). Preservation of palm leaf manuscripts in Tamil. IFLA Journal,20(3),305.

46
 2.6.1 PRESERVATION
The word preservation is now applied to a wide variety of collection
management responsibilities intended to preserve collections of print and non­
print materials for future generation.
According to Harrod’s Librarian Glossary, “All the management and
financial considerations are including storage and accommodation provisions,
staffing levels, policies, techniques and methods involving in preserving library
and archive materials and the information contained in them”.24
Preservation encompasses the activities which prolong the usable life
of archival records. Preservation activities are designed to minimize the
physical and chemical deterioration of records and to prevent the loss of
informational content. These activities include providing a stable environment
for records of all media types, using safe handling and storage methods,
duplicating unstable materials to a stable media, copying potentially fragile
materials into a usable format (e.g. microfilming or digitization), storing
records in housings made from stable materials (e.g. document boxes made
from "acid-free" paperboard), repairing documents to maintain their original
format, establishing a pest control program and instituting a disaster recovery
plan which includes plans for emergency preparedness and response.25
In preservation, preservative measures are taken to stop or to check or
to retard deterioration. It is, therefore, an unending process.26

2.6.2 CONSERVATION
Conservation is the physical and chemical treatment of material to
retard their future deterioration. The purpose of conservation is to stabilize an
object and to maintain it as close as possible to its original condition. The
conservation is a term, which embraces three closed related term,
preservation, protection and maintenance.

24 Ray, P. (Comp.) .(2005). op.cit.,p.555.

25U.S.National Archives.(n.d.). Retrieved August 7, 2008 from http://www.archives.gov/
preservation/about, html
26Deshpande, N.J. , & Panage, B. M. (1999). Digitization of library materials. University News,
37 (38), 10.

47
 According to Harrod’s Librarian Glossary, “A term which denotes those
specific policies and practices involving in protecting library and archive
materials from deterioration, damage and decay including the methods and
techniques devised by technical staff.”27
Conservation comprises the examination, documentation, and
treatment of records. Conservators perform treatments which preserve
records in their original format. They examine records and assess their
condition and the materials which comprise them, recommend remedial
treatments to arrest deterioration, recommend treatments to improve
condition, and document (in writing and with photographs) the treatments they
perform on records. Treatment documentation is important because it
provides information to future archivists and conservators about what was
done to records in the past. Some of the treatments that might be performed
on a record include cleaning, removing damaging materials (e.g. mold, tape,
or deteriorating adhesives), mending tears, de-acidifying records at risk from
acid deterioration, and providing custom housing made from stable
materials.28

2.7 DETERIORATION OF MANUSCRIPTS

Deterioration is an alteration in an object produced by interaction
between the object and factor of destruction.29 Objects of organic origin are
relatively more susceptible and subject to irreversible and inevitable decay in
due course of time. The different types of deterioration are reflected in the
form of wear and tear, cracks, shrinkage, brittleness, softening, staining,
warping, bio-infestation, discoloration, dust and dirt accumulation, abrasions,
holes, missing pieces, internal stress. Manuscripts are susceptible to
deterioration by physical factors, biological factors, chemical factors and
human factors.

27Ray, P. (Comp.). (2005). op.cit., p.165.

28
U.S. National Archives, (n.d). Retrieved August 12,2008 from http://www.archives.gov/
preservation/about, html).
29 Agrawal, O.P. (1993). Preservation of art objects and library materials. New Delhi: National
Book Trust ,xv.

48
 Humiditv «/

Climate

Temperature
Physical Light

Fire

Accident
water

Atmospheric
Pollution

Chemical Acid

Dust

Insects
FACTORS OF
DETERIORATION

Biological Rodents

Fungus

Mishandling

Human
Faulty
conservation

Improper
cleaning

Fig. 2.5 Deterioration Factors of Manuscripts

49
2.7.1 PHYSICAL FACTORS

Light
It can be broadly classified into natural light and artificial light. The
natural light consist of cosmic rays, gamma rays, X-rays, ultra violet rays,
infra-red rays, visible light rays. The ultra violet rays coming from the sun and
other sources affect the cellulose bond of the paper and damage the leaves.
The writing inks are also faded away by the ultra-violet rays. Light indirectly
activates chemical deterioration. The extend of deterioration of manuscripts
due to light depends upon nature of light, intensity of light and time of
exposure. Shorter the wavelength, the greater is the proportion of ultraviolet
radiation in light, the higher the damage. The more is the intensity and time of
exposure the more is the damage.30

Climate
Temperature and humidity are important component of the climate.
Excessive variation in temperature has deleterious effect on paper. It results
in the cellulose fibres expanding and contracting over and over again, thus
weakening them. If the temperature is raised more than 40°C, it causes
evaporation of moisture from paper, hence leads to dryness and brittleness in
paper and alters the physical size of the paper. Too little humidity tends to dry
the cellulose fibers and rob them of their resilience, while too much humidity
encourages the growth of mould. The ideal condition of temperature and
humidity is 65°F-75°F and 50% respectively.31

Accidents
Destruction caused by fire and water are not common but accidental.
Fire not only damages the manuscripts but the whole stack room. Fire

30 Gupta, K.K. (2007). Effect of light on manuscripts and its control. Kriti Rakshana.
Retrieved February 10, 2009 from http://www.namami.org/Kriti%20
rakshana 7vol/KA707/KA707.pdf.

31 Basu, P. (1950). Enemies of records. The Indian Archives, 4 (1), 9.

50
produces enormous amounts of heat, smoke and toxic gasses. The process
of extinguishing the fire causes as much or some times more damage than
the fire itself. Causes of fire include natural phenomena such as lightning, as
well as old or defective electric wiring or heating equipments, accumulation of
combustible materials, etc32.Secondly, water both in liquid form and vapors
form accelerates the chemical process of deterioration which affects the
cellulose bond of the paper and loses its strength. Besides natural
occurrences such as hurricanes, tornadoes and flood water damage can
come from malfunctioning plumbing, sprinkler and air-conditioning systems.
Regardless of the cause, great danger of a serious mould problem exists
once water entered the collection area.

2.7.2 BIOLOGICAL FACTORS

Fungus
Fungus damage the material on which they grow. Fungus degrades
and causes stains on paper, leather and textiles. Moisture content above 75%
in the air, even for short time encourages the growth of mould.33

Insects
Insects are probably the worst enemies of papers and manuscripts.
They bore holes into the material they infest and eat it voraciously.
Silver Fish
Silver fish tend to feed on the products high in carbohydrates and
proteins. Such materials as paper, glue, and gelatin are favourite of silverfish.
They are fond of dark places. They gnaw holes in paper, manuscripts and
photographs.34

32 Gupta, K.K. (2009). Disaster management in manuscript repositories. Kriti Rakshana.

Retrieved February 10, 2009 from http://www.namami.org/Kriti%20
rakshana 7vol/Ka08m09/Kriti%20Rakshana%20 april 08 march 09.pdf.

33 Basu, P. (1950). op.cit.,13.

34 Singh, R.S. (2000). Antiquity-impact of environment and bio-deterioration. Conservation of

Cultural Property in India , 32&33, 47.

51
Cockroaches

Cockroaches are frequently found in libraries, archives, museum, and

are very active during night. They live in the corners which are damp,
cleavages in walls and floors, behind and beneath almirahs and shelves. In
addition to gnawing books they emit a dark ink-line liquid which defaces the
pages of books and anything else across which they scuttle.35

Book Worm

Bookworms feed on paper and damage paper extensively. The larva

makes tunnels of about 1-1.5mm. in width running in all directions, during the
course of their feeding activity in the pages and boards of the books.36

Book Lice

Booklice are small grey or pale yellow insects with soft bodies and jaws
well developed for the purpose of chewing. They injure the binding of the
books by eating the paste or glue. They are very common during late summer
when temperature and relative humidity are high.37

Termites

Termites or white ants are the most damaging of all the insects to the
manuscripts and papers. They leave mud encrustations on the attacked
materials. Termites do irreparable damage in no time.38

35 Plumbe, W.J. (1958). Storage and preservation of books, periodicals and newspapers in
tropical climates. Unesco Bulletin for Libraries, 12 (July), 158.

36 Abduraheem (2000). Bookworm- a major threat to manuscripts and archival material.

Conservation of Cultural Property in India, 32&33, 120.

37 Singh, R.S. (2000). op.cit.

38 Plumbe, W.J. (1959). Preservation of library materials in tropical countries. Library Trends,
8(2), 305.

52
Rodents
Rodents cause extensive damage to anything made of paper, leather,
vellum, glue, paste, gelatin,etc. They destroy manuscripts by cutting them into
pieces and they can not be repaired and restored in their original condition.39
2.7.3 CHEMICAL FACTORS

Atmospheric Pollution

The atmospheric contaminants that cause degradation of the

manuscripts, books, etc., are smoke, industrial and exhaust effluents present
in the form of solid particulates, gas pollutants and liquid aerosols. These can
cause irremovable stains. The gasses like Sulphur dioxide(S02), Carbon
dioxide (CO2),Hydrogen sulphide (H2S), along with the dust and dirt particles
which are in a suspended state in polluted air have adverse effect on paper 40

Acid
The most insidious form of deterioration is caused by acid. The source
of acidity in paper can be either intrinsic or extrinsic41. Intrinsic acid is
introduced during manufacture, for instance bleaching agents left in because
of inadequate washing. The most common extrinsic source of acidity is
Sulphur dioxide in the atmosphere 42

39Mahapatra, P.K., & Chakrabarti, B. (2003). Preservation in libraries: Perspectives principles

and practice. New Delhi: Ess Ess Publications, p.83.

40 Talwar.V.V. (2000). Documentary heritage and atmospheric pollution. Conservation of

Cultural Property in India, 32& 33, 41-42 .

41 Singh, R.S. (2000). Conservation of documents in libraries archives and museum. New
Delhi: Aditya Prakashan, p.41.

42Basu, P. (1950). op.cit., 8.

53
Dust
Dust act as an abrasive cutting down the fibres and reduce the
strength of paper. Dust also act as a nucleus for condensation of acidic gases
present in contaminated atmosphere 43

2.7.4 HUMAN FACTOR

Mishandling of the manuscripts while carrying them from one place to
other can cause damage to manuscripts. Secondly, faulty conservation
treatment of manuscripts can cause irreparable damage to manuscripts.
Improper cleaning of manuscripts is also risky as damage to the manuscripts
can be caused even by friction.

2.8 CONSERVATION PROBLEMS

The archives, libraries, museums are concerned with archival
documents, manuscripts, books, painting, decorative art, sculpture, etc. These
may be organic or in organic in nature. Palm leaf manuscripts, birch bark
manuscripts and paper being organic in nature are relatively more susceptible
and subject to irreversible and inevitable decay in due course of time as well
as due to various deterioration factor. The main conservation problems
caused by the deterioration factors are:

Stains
Faulty storage conditions, contact with water, dust and dirt causes the
stains on the palm leaf.44 The absorption of the birch bark is very low because
of the presence of waxes and resins, and consequently birch bark is not
readily stained. It gets stained if it remains in contact with material like oil and
grease for long time. 45Where as in paper manuscripts water, oil or rust stains
are very common.

43 Tandon, A.(2000). Unforeseen problems: practicing conservation in small museum.

Conservation of Cultural Property in India, 32&33, 37-40.

44 Agrawal, O. P. (1984). op.cit.,p.41.

45 Agrawal, O. P. (1984). op.cit, p.16.

54
Discolouration
The palm leaf becomes brown or black i.e., palm leaves get
discoloured. The main cause of discolouration is due to oxidation of the leafy
matter, accumulation of the dust or frequent use of the oils on them. 46The
birch bark also become discoloured or blackened with age where as the paper
manuscripts turn yellow or brown with the passage of time.

Fading of Ink
Fading of ink is common problem, abrasions, frequent handling, effect
of light results into fading of ink of the manuscripts.

Insects Attack
The only insects feeding on palm leaf in India is Gastrallus indicus 47 It
is a tiny insect that eats its way through the bundles of manuscripts. Silverfish,
bookworm and termite cause serious damage to paper manuscripts. Birch
bark is not affected by the insect as it is having insect repellent component .It
is naturally salted i.e., salt of salicylic acid48 is present, due to which, insects
do not attack.

Fungus Attack
The growth of fungus is not very common on palm leaf manuscripts still
it appears on the surface in greenish black colonies during rainy season or if
the leaf gets wet.49 Fungi do not develop on birch bark even in a high humidity

46 Agrawal, O. P. (1984). op.cit., p.42.

47 Kishore, R. (1961). Preservation and repair of palm leaf manuscripts. The Indian Archives,
14, 76.

48 Das, S.K. (2005). Indigenous practices and materials for conservation of manuscripts in
libraries. In Anupam Sah (Ed.), Indigenous Methods and Manuscript
Preservation (pp.159-168). New Delhi: National Mission for Manuscripts.

49 Agrawal, O. P. (1984). op.cit., p.43.

55
atmosphere.50 Fungal growth is again very common in case of paper
manuscripts resulting into black or green spots on manuscripts.

Splitting of the Surface Layer

Variations in the environmental climatic conditions results into the
splitting of the surface layers and as a result cracks appear on the surface of
palm leaf manuscripts and the ink flakes off at the splits. Tears are found on
the birch bark manuscripts due to the weakened structure.

Cleavage of the Surface Layer

Low temperature and high humidity causes a defect of cleavage of the
surface layer from the main body of the palm leaf. This happens due to the
breakdown of the bond between the surface layer and other parts of the leaf.
Birch bark has a multilayered structure .The binding force is the natural gum
which in the course of time disintegrates, and as a result the layers start
separating. However, the nodes hold the layers together firmly at various
points.

Brittleness
Palm leaf with the passage of time loses its suppleness and becomes
fragile and brittle. The defect occurs due to breakdown of the leaf structure.
Birch bark also becomes stiff and brittle and get weaken considerably due to
weakened structure.

2.9 TECHNIQUES OF PRESERVATION AND CONSERVATION OF

MANUSCRIPTS
The preservation and conservation techniques can be broadly
classified into:
• Traditional Techniques
• Modern Techniques

50 Agrawal, O. P. (1984). op.cit., p.14.

56
2.9.1 TRADITIONAL TECHNIQUES
Care of the manuscripts was a major concern in the past and efforts
were made to safeguard the collection from the agents of deterioration. The
methods used to save the manuscripts were based on the experience and
knowledge of natural and herbal products .These were used for storage of
manuscripts and to prevent them from deterioration. Some of the natural
products in use for their germicidal properties and insect repellency
potentialities are enumerated below:
> Small packets of powder of dried leaves of aswagandha are kept with
the manuscripts covered in clothes to repel insect attack.51
> Dried ginger is kept along with bundles of manuscripts to save them
from insect attack.52
> Kumkum fruit powder is a very good insect repellant.
> Powdered roots of dried sweet flag are filled in small bags and are
kept in cup-boards of manuscripts as it has got very good medicinal
value and insecticidal power.53
> Powdered ajwain also acts as an insect killer and fungicide. Fumes of
ajwain obtained by its burning, has often been used as a fungicide and
an antiseptic in Indian homes.
> Dried tobacco leaves are packed in small cloth bags or spread on the
shelves where manuscripts are kept. The nicotinic acid of the leaves
keeps the insects away.54

51 Gupta, K.K. ( 2005). An introduction to the traditional practices for the control of

bio-deterioration of manuscripts. In Anupam Sah (Ed.,), Indigenous Methods

and Manuscript Preservation (pp.35-59). New Delhi: National Mission for
Manuscripts.

52 Sahoo, J„ & Mohanty, B. (2003). Indigenous methods of preserving manuscripts. The

Orissa Historical Research Journal, 47(3), 28-32.

53 Gupta, K.K. ( 2005). An introduction to the traditional practices for the control of bio­

deterioration of manuscripts. In Anupam Sah (Ed.), Indigenous methods and

manuscript preservation (pp.35-59). New Delhi: National Mission for Manuscripts.

54 Devi, K.S. (2005). Indigenous methods of conservation of manuscripts in Manipur.

In Anupam Sah (Ed.), Indigenous methods and manuscript preservation
(pp.219-226). New Delhi: National Mission for Manuscripts.

57
 > Naga-damani bears an essential oil whose sweet aroma and insect
repellant action helps to eradicate insects from the manuscripts.55
> Mint leaves in its natural form are used to repel ants and cockroaches.
> Black-Cumin commonly known as kala jeera is used as an insect
repellant. The seeds are scattered at the manuscript storage area and
strong aromatic smell keeps insects away.56
> Sandal wood dust is commonly used as insect repellant. It also act as a
humidity buffer.
> Dried leaves from neem tree are placed between the cover of the book
to deter booklice. As the wooden planks attached to the bundles of
manuscripts are prone to insect attack, in some libraries the planks are
made of neem wood which can ward off termite.57
> The mixture of neem leaves, karanja, nirgundi and citronella are known
for their insecticidal properties.
> Camphor is commonly used in India to protect valuable documents. A
mixture of camphor and clove are used to repel insects from textile and
manuscripts collections. Moreover, synthetic camphor oil is also used
to protect palm leaf manuscripts against insect attack. The smoke
produced on burning camphor oil has been found to be very effective
as an insecticide and a fungicide.58
> Citronella oil is rubbed on palm-leaf manuscripts to increase flexibility
and to deter attack by insect.59

55 Gupta, C.B., & Haider, S. H. (1995). Conservation practices in ancient India. Conservation
of Cultural Property in India, 28, 36-43.

56Sahoo, J., & Mohanty, B. (2003). Indigenous methods of preserving manuscripts. The
Orissa Historical Research Journal, 47(3), 28-32.

57 Prasad, L.K. (1981-82). Role of neem leaves in protecting textile material and paper
document. Conservation of Cultural Property in India, 14-15, 95-97.

58 Gupta, K.K. ( 2005). An introduction to the traditional practices for the control of bio­
deterioration of manuscripts. In Anupam Sah (Ed.,), Indigenous Methods and
Manuscript Preservation (pp.35-59). New Delhi: National Mission for Manuscripts.

59
Jeyaraj, V. (2005). Traditional practices and palm-leaf manuscripts in Tamil Nadu.
In Anupam Sah (Ed.), Indigenous Methods and Manuscript Preservation
(pp.143-150). New Delhi: National Mission for Manuscripts.

58
 > Oil extracts of some natural products like black pepper, sandal wood
and clove facilitate in the restoration of flexibility to the palm leaf
manuscripts.
> Resin oil is applied on manuscripts as the strong aroma prevents silver
fish from attacking the folios 60
> Khus roots and oil are both used as insect repellent.61
> Canola oil is used to control insects. It repels insects by acting as an
insect irritant.
> Lemon-grass oil coatings strengthen the leaves of manuscripts and
also destroy the growth of micro-organisms. 62
> Garlic exhibits antibacterial, antifungal and insecticidal qualities. Garlic
oil spray also has fungicidal properties.
> Combination of acorus calmus, cumin, cloves, pepper, cinnamon and
camphor was used as an insect repellent for six months, though it had
to be replaced after six month or so.63
> Peacock feathers while attached to the peacock leave aromatic
accretions, which spread throughout their feathers, when the leaves
are detached the residual aroma acts as insect repellent, therefore
feathers are kept in the books to keep the insects away.64
> Snake slough is kept in old book as the snake slough is charged with
an aroma liberated by male to entice the female and the aroma has
insect repellent property.

60Alahakoon, C.N.K. (2005). Indigenous conservation practices for palm-leaf

manuscripts in India. In Anupam Sah (Ed.), Indigenous Methods and

Manuscript Preservation (pp.61-72). New Delhi: National Mission for

Manuscripts.

61Sahoo, J., & Mohanty, B. (2003). Indigenous methods of preserving manuscripts. The
Orissa Historical Research Journal, 47(3), 28-32.

62Gupta, K.K. ( 2005). An introduction to the traditional practices for the control of bio­

deterioration of manuscripts. In Anupam Sah (EdJ, Indigenous Methods and

Manuscript Preservation (pp.35-59). New Delhi: National Mission for Manuscripts.

63lbid.

64lbid.

59
 > Nirgandi is a shrub, after being dried in sun, the leaves are inserted
between the bundles of palm-leaves manuscripts to keep the insects
65
away.

2.9.2 MODERN TECHNIQUES

With the advent of the Portugese , British and French colonist in Indian
sub continent the traditional techniques of preservation came to be treated as
backward .This led to the abandoning of these traditional practices in favour of
modern readymade chemicals product imported from west. Various modern
techniques are practiced in libraries, museums and other manuscript
repositories to preserve the manuscripts.

2.9.2.1 CLEANING AND STAINS REMOVAL

Faulty storage conditions, contact with water, dust and dirt causes
the stains on the manuscripts. Different methods are adopted to clean and
remove stains.

Fig. 2.6 Cleaning and Stain Removing Techniques

65
Ibid.

60
Dry Cleaning Method
The dry cleaning methods are effective only to remove loose powdery
dust, dirt, dead insect bodies or their eggs and fungus spores. Dry cleaning is
done by brushing with the soft brush. Small hand held vacuum cleaner with
brush as an attachment is also used to remove the dust from manuscripts.

A compressor capable of giving a continuous flow of air, with a

pressure control is used for cleaning manuscripts in big repositories. The air
current is directed towards the sides and edges of the heaps of the
manuscripts in a manner that all free dust is blown out without damaging
them. The current is maintained in such a manner that it does not hit the
manuscripts hard resulting into the wear and tear of the fragile and brittle
manuscripts.

Eraser is also used to remove the pencil marks from the manuscripts.
Soft vinyl eraser66 can be used .These methods can remove the surface
stains and marks but dust stains penetrated into the paper fibres can not be
removed by dry methods.

Solvent Cleaning
The stains and spots that can not be removed by dry methods can be
removed by treatment with solvent or by washing. The important solvents are
ethyl alcohol, toluene, acetone, di-chloro ethylene, petroleum ether.67 1,1,1 -tri
chloroethane , ethanol are used to clean the surface written manuscripts.68
The stickiness of the leaves due to oil can be removed by acetone. The
fungus on palm leaves can be cleaned with cotton swabs moistened with

66 Plenderleith, H.J., & Werner, A. E. A. (1989). The conservation of antiquities and works of
art: Treatment,repair and restoration. (2nd ed.). New Delhi: Oxford University Press
,p.79.

67 Agrawal, O.P., & Barkeshli, M. (1984). Conservation of books, manuscripts and paper
Documents . Lucknow: INTACH, p. 112.

68 Crowley, Alfred. S. (1969). Repair and conservation of palm-leaf manuscripts. Restaurator,

1, 107.

61
ethanol. A wash in a mixture of glycerin and alcohol (1:1) can also be used for
cleaning of palm leaves.69 In case of palm leaves having water soluble

writings, acetone or benzene wash is recommended. Xylene, chloroform,

acetone and ethanol dissolve the constituents of birch bark to the extend of
10-22%. 70Prolong use of the solvent can even affect the basic properties.

Therefore, precautions should be taken while using solvents.

Aqueous Cleaning
In order to remove the stains water or water based solution is used.
Ensuring the ink is not effected by water, the best solvent for the removal of
dirt and other stains from palm leaves and birch bark is water. However, it is
not used for surface written manuscripts. Incised leaves are cleaned with

distilled water lightly rubbed with a piece of soft cloth. Rymar recommend the

birch bark can be washed with hot distilled water to remove dirt at 75-
80°C71. However, hot water can be dangerous for ink and some constituents of

birch bark can also get affected.

Bleaching
There are several stains on paper which are difficult to remove either
by organic solvents or washing. The bleaching has been used for many years

to remove such stains. The process is recommended only when it is

absolutely necessary as it can be very injurious to paper if the chlorine or

other bleaching agents are not removed thoroughly. It is also ruinous to many
writing inks. Moreover, it does not add any strength to the paper treated, but
may improve appearance.72 Bleaching agents such as hypochlorites,

69 Kishore, R. (1961). Preservation and repair of palm leaf manuscripts. The Indian Archives,

14, 72.

70Agrawal, O.P. (1984). op.cit., p.18.

71 Ibid., p. 19.

72 Hummel, R.O., & Barrow, W. J. (1956). Lamination and other methods of restoration.

Library Trends, 4(3), 259.

62
chloramine-T, sodium chlorite (chlorine dioxide), potassium permagnate and
hydrogen peroxide can be used for paper manuscripts73. Birch bark has
natural stains and can not be bleached.

Hypochlorites
Hypochlorites are most common bleaching agents as these are cheap
and can be easily manipulated. There are three types of hypochlorites,
namely, potassium hypochlorite, calcium hypochlorite, and sodium
hypochlorite. Calcium hypochlorite74 is less damaging than sodium
hypochlorite and potassium hypochlorite and is preferred.

Chloramine -T
Chloramine-T, a white powder, is moderately soluble in water and its
action depends on the liberation of chloride. A freshly prepared 2% solution is
used. It is necessary to wash chloramine-T from the paper as if it is retained in
the paper, make it acidic. Although it is milder than hypochlorites, it may also
fade ink and pigments.

Chlorine Dioxide
The other important bleaching agent used to remove water stains,
foxing marks, mildew stains, etc. is chlorine dioxide. Gettens described three
ways of employing sodium chloride. The simplest method is by giving bath in
the mixture produced by adding formaldehyde solution to a solution of sodium
chlorite in water. Secondly in soluble form, produced by dissolving the gas in
water and this method of using dissolved chlorine dioxide is applied to the
documents which can not be immersed in water for longer duration and can

73 Agrawal, O. P. (1984). op.cit., p.188.

74 Singh, R.S. (2000). Conservation of documents in libraries archives and museum. .New
Delhi: Aditya Prakashan, p. 87.

63
not tolerate washing later on. The third method is by using the chlorine dioxide
gas. Special bleaching chamber is required for using chlorine dioxide gas.75

Hydrogen Peroxide
A diluted solution of hydrogen peroxide has been used as a mild
bleaching agent for manuscripts. A technique of preparing suspensions of
hydrogen peroxide in ether is also used to make the action even milder and to
ensure that it does not affect the writing or paint. The appearance of
discolored palm leaves manuscripts are improved by bleaching with hydrogen
peroxide.76

2.9.2.2 DE-ACIDIFICATION
The process of neutralizing the acid in paper by raising its pH is called
de-acidification. De-acidification does not return deteriorated paper to its
original conditions, it simply aims to neutralize the acid in paper and add
alkaline to it as a buffer to withstand future acid attack.77ln mass de­
acidification process gas or liquid is introduced into a sealed chamber in
which items to be de-acidified are stacked. A vacuum is introduced which
forces the gas or liquid to penetrate throughout the items and react with the
paper to neutralize the acid in it and leave an alkaline residue. Waste
products are withdrawn from the chamber. The process requires scientific,
technical and engineering expertise and expenses to establish. The de­
acidification system for paper is divided into three important categories
namely aqueous, non-aqueous and vapor-phase de -acidification.

75 Gettens, R. J. (1952). The bleaching of stained and discoloured pictures on paper with
sodium chlorite and chlorine dioxide. Museum, 5, 123-30.

76 Agrawal, O. P. (1984).op.cit., p.43.

77 Das, S. K. (2005). Indigenous practices and materials for conservation of manuscripts in

libraries. In Anupam Sah (Ed.) , Indigenous Methods and Manuscript
Preservation (pp.159-168). New Delhi: National Mission for Manuscripts.

64
 Fig. 2.7 De-acidification Techniques

Aqueous Solution
Aqueous de-acidification has a great advantage over other systems
because water is very good solvent of acidic products of paper and is capable
of removing them. It has one disadvantage that ink, dyes may be damaged by
water solution. If the pigment and the ink are not affected by water then
aqueous process of de-acidification is the best. The two main processes in
use for aqueous de-acidification are:

• Calcium hydroxide-calcium bicarbonate method

• Magnesium bicarbonate

Calcium hydroxide-calcium bicarbonate method

In this method document is immersed for twenty minutes in a
saturated solution of Calcium hydroxide. The concentration is approximately
0.15% .The document is then immersed in a second solution of 0.15%
calcium bicarbonate .Calcium hydroxide still remaining in the manuscript is

65
converted to calcium carbonate .which fills the pores of paper and act as a
buffer against future acidity.78

Magnesium bicarbonate
In this method the paper is immersed in a 0.2% solution of magnesium
bicarbonate. Magnesium bicarbonate is alkaline and therefore neutralize the
paper. Any excess remaining in the paper is converted to magnesium
carbonate, which is deposited in the fibres of the paper as a buffer.79

Non-Aqueous De-acidification
De-acidification can not be undertaken with the water soluble alkalis if
the paper, colour, ink is damaged by water. In such cases non-aqueous de­
acidification is used.

Barium hydroxide -Octa-hydrate

A solution of 19 gms of barium hydroxide -octa-hydrate is made in one
liter of methanol. This solution is applied on a document by brushing, dipping
or spraying. Barium hydroxide penetrates into paper fibres and is converted to
barium carbonate because of carbon dioxide in the air. This method fails to
remove the degradation products like polygluconic acids, which tends to
reverse the paper to acidic condition. There are several ink, colour, pigments
which are damaged by methanol. Great care is necessary in the use of
methanol as it is toxic as well as inflammable. Barium carbonate precipitated
on the paper is poisonous on indigestion80
Magnesium methoxide
In this process, a solution composed of one part of 7% magnesium
methoxide in methanol and three parts of trichlorotrifluoroethane is applied on

78Lal, A. (1991). Deacidification of paper documents. Conservation of Cultural Property in

India, Silver jubilee volume, 105.
79 Barrow, W.J. (1965). Deacidification and lamination of deteriorated documents, 1938-63.
American Archivist, 28, 290.
80 Singh, R.S. (2000). Is deacidification panacea to conserve paper? Conservation of Culture
Property in India , 32&33, 101.

66
the document. Before the application of the solution moisture must be
removed from the paper.

Vapor Phase De-acidification

Aqueous de-acidification as well as non-aqueous treatments

sometimes affects ink, dyes and pigments. In such cases vapor-phase de­
acidification is done.

Cyclo-hexylamine Carbonate

Langwell81suggested the use of cyclo-hexylamine carbonate(CHC) as

a de-acidifying agent. In this process of de-acidification the porous paper is
impregnated with CHC. Leaves of this paper are inserted at suitable intervals
between pages of books. The CHC vapours diffuses through the thickness of
a closed book vary rapidly. The disadvantage of this system is that no reserve
alkali remains behind to take care of future production of acid. CHC treatment
appears to destroy the effect of rosin .sizing as well as decreases the
brightness of the paper. Cyclo-hexylamine have a toxic effect.CHC process is
not widely used.

Morpholine de-acidification

The de-acidifying agent was suggested by Walker.82The manuscripts

to be treated are placed in an air tight container and then most of the air is
removed with a vacuum pump to an absolute pressure of 0.5 tol.O torr. A
mixture of morpholine vapour and water vapour is admitted to the container
for about 10 minutes, during which time the alkaline vapours completely
penetrate each manuscript. The residual morpholine is evacuated and then
fresh air is let in to flush out the remaining chemicals.

81 Langwell, W.H. (1966). The vapour phase-deacidification of books and documents. Journal

of Society of Archivist, 3, 135.

82 Agrawal, OP. (1984).op.cit, p.177.

67
Ammonia
Kathpalia suggested the use of ammonia83. Manuscripts are exposed
to vapours of ammonia in a closed chamber. Ammonia neutralizes the acidity
present in the paper. The neutralization is temporary, possibly because of the
disassociation of ammonium salts. After sometime the ammonia volatilizes
and documents become acidic again.

2.9.2.3 FUMIGATION
There are several chemicals which are volatile i.e., they evaporate, if
left open, either in normal room temperature or with slight rise in the same.
As the vapors of such volatile chemicals are poisonous to the insects, fungi,
etc. these can be used for protection against such enemies of the
manuscripts. The process of disinfection involving the use of insecticide in
gaseous form is called fumigation. Methods adopted for fumigation are:
• Vacuum Fumigation
• Vault Fumigation
• Gas-Tight Cover Fumigation

Vacuum Fumigation
The most effective and speedy means of removing infestation is
vacuum fumigation. The vacuum helps the fumigant to penetrate rapidly into
the interstices of books and tightly packed papers. It destroys not only insects
but also their eggs. The process is effective but costly as it involves
installation of costly equipment.
Vault Fumigation
An air tight room with adequate ventilation is used for fumigation. The
room is well plastered and provided with well gasket fitting doors and windows
open able from outside and with the leaves opening outward side of all the
four walls. The crevices between the door and window leaves and their
frames are sealed with mud mortar or gummed paper during fumigation.

83 Singh, R.S. (2000). Conservation of documents in libraries archives and museum. New
Delhi: Aditya Prakashan, p.89.

68
 Gas-Tight Cover Fumigation
Fumigation is carried out in open in suitable gas-tight covers made
from rubber proofed double texture fabric. The edges are sealed to floor by
means of mud plaster. The following fumigants at the concentrations stated
below are very effective in killing all stirage insect pests within 24 hours and
have no deleterious effect on paper, ink and other record components.84

Fumigants Concentration per 1000 cu.ft.

Ethylene oxide and carbon dioxide 30 lbs.
(1:9)
Hydrocyanic acid gas Froml lb. of sodium cyanide
Ethylene dichloride and Carbon 14 lbs.
tetrachloride (3:1)
Carbon disulphide and Carbon 6 lbs.
tetrachloride (1:4)
Ethylene oxide 2 lbs.
Methyl bromide 2 lbs.
Methyl formate and carbon dioxide 28 lbs.
(2:5)

The use paradichlorobenzene crystal is the most effective method for

fumigation. Fumigation of palm leaf is best achieved with
paradichlorobenzene at 65% relative humidity.85 1:1 mixture of carbon
tetrachloride and ethylene dichloride is also satisfactory for fumigation of palm

84 Talwar, V.V. (1975). Fumigation techniques for sterilization of paper. Conservation of

Cultural Property in India , 8, 49.

85 Subbaraman, S. (2007). Conservation of illustrated manuscripts. Kriti Rakshana, 2(April),

26-27.Retrieved March 15, 2009 from
http://www.namami.org/Kriti%20rakshana 7vol/11/pdf/final% 20newsletter.pdf

69
leaves. Fumigation with thymol crystals is done to treat fungus attack on palm
leaf.86
The fumigants are poisonous not only to insects but also to human
beings. Most of them are toxic by ingestion, inhalation and skin absorption.
Safety precautions must be observed while working with them.

2.9.2.4 RESTORATION
Restoration involves action taken in order to return the object, as far as
possible, to its original physical aesthetic state.

Flattening
Flattening is the process of the removal of the folds, wrinkles or
distortions. The document is wetted in the water bath, or with a moist brush,
placed on smooth flat surface and folds is removed with a stiff flat brush and
then is allowed to dry. Humidifying chamber is also used to damp the
document. Afterwards the documents are placed between blotting paper and
pressed slightly with hot iron till folds , creases and wrinkles are flattened.

86 Agrawal, O.P. (1984). op.cit., p.44

70
Resizing
All the papers are sized with animal glue, gelatin or starch, etc. during
the process of its manufacturing. Sometimes on account of action of water,
micro-organisms, the paper becomes weak due to decay of the sizing
material. The strength of deteriorated paper is renewed by resizing. Resizing
is done by dipping the sheet into a bath of 2% to 4% animal glue or gelatin.87

Minor Repairs
Manuscripts which are slightly damaged can be repaired with tissue
paper, impregnated tissue paper or with a paper pulp. For mending of tears a
small strip of tissue is pasted from both sides of the tear.
In order to mend the corners a hand made paper of similar thickness
as the original is selected. The thickness of the original document as well as
repair paper is reduced at the edges to be joined and a thin paste is applied
on edges and is joined.
The small holes in the document are filled with paper fibres. The paper
for the preparation of fibre suspension is selected carefully to match with the
original. Paste is mixed with the paper fibers and is filled in the holes. Tiny
holes of palm leaves manuscripts are filled with the fibres of mulberry tissue
paper. Adhensive such as methyl cellulose is added to the fibres and are used
to fill in the holes. To repair big holes Japanese tissue paper is used. The
tissue paper is cut slightly bigger than the size of the hole. The surface of the
palm leaf is roughened all around the periphery of the lacuna, an adhensive is
applied on it and tissue paper is then filled into the gaps.

Reinforcement
A fragile or a brittle manuscript due to different causes is to be
reinforced physically to strengthen it for study, display or storage. Birch bark

87 Hummel, R.O., & Barrow, W.J. (1956). Lamination and other methods of restoration.

Library Trends, 4(3), 259-260.

71
ought to be preserved flat and without any reinforcement of the edge with
added strip.88

Encapsulation Lamination In Laying

V ---------------------------- 7----------------------------

Reinforcement

Chiffon Lamination

Fig. 2.9 Methods of Reinforcement

Reinforcement by Full Lining

The manuscripts written on single side can be reinforced by pasting a
Nepalese tissue paper, Japanese tissue paper or hand made rag paper at the
back by dextrine, maida paste, starch paste or CMC paste. The size of the
paper for full lining should be slightly larger than the size of the document to
be pasted over. After the paste is dried, the oversize paper is trimmed to the
size of the manuscript keeping a margin of 2-3 mm all around to safeguard
the edges of the manuscripts.

88 Filliozat, J.(1947). Manuscripts on birch bark (bhurjapatra) and their preservation. Indian
Archives, 1(2), 103.

72
Tissue Paper
A manuscript on which writing is done on both sides and has not faded
but show slight deterioration are reinforced with Japanese tissue paper by
using CMC paste or dextrin paste. Repairing is almost impossible when the
palm leaf is damaged. Broken leaves can be protected by pasting tissue
paper on both sides or keeping the pieces between glasses.

Chiffon Lamination
Chiffon was used in early days for the repair of extremely brittle
manuscripts. Chiffon piece is pasted on palm leaf with an adhensive
containing dextrine and starch in a propotion of 1:1.89

Inlaying or Framing
Inlaying is the method of extending the margins of a single sheet of
paper by framing it with a larger sheet. Since the rate of expansion and
contraction due to change in temperature and humidity is seldom the same in
two different papers, inlaying may result into the formation of undesirable
cockles and a premature breakdown of original sheet. The process is slow
rather tedious and gives little added strength, is not a satisfactory method of
restoration.
Lamination
Paper documents which are written on both sides and are in bad state
are repaired by lamination between the two sheets of cellulose acetate film on
both sides of paper by heat and pressure. Special equipment with controlled
heat and pressure is used to laminate the paper. The cellulose acetate film
developed in middle 1930 has a limited tear resistance. The process of
lamination dose not eliminates the harmful compounds frequently found in the
paper which causes deterioration within the fibres. The process is useful but

89 Kishore, R. (1961). Preservation and repair of palm leaf manuscripts. The Indian Archives,
14, 74.

73
should not be used for the manuscripts of permanent value.90 The lamination
is not easily reversible and the high pressure and heat affects the documents.
Hand lamination is also done by the use of acetone as a solvent without use
of any special equipment and can avoid the danger of heat and pressure to
the manuscript. In case of hand lamination the use of acetone can be harmful
for the ink and dye which are affected by the acetone, and the same can not
be used.

Encapsulation
Encapsulation is used for fragile items or where the heavy use is
expected. The manuscript is encapsulated with the help of polyester film
without using any chemical or heat and pressure. The manuscript is placed
between two polyester film. The electrostatic charge of the polyester keep the
manuscript in position. The edges are sealed with double sided adhensive
tape or using polyester sealing machine. It is completely reversible in nature
without effecting the manuscripts. Encapsulation is safe for Palm leaf
manuscripts, birch bark manuscripts as well as for paper manuscripts.91

Medical science propagates that prevention is better than cure. The

same is true for the science of conservation. Preventive conservation is a
process in which all actions are taken to retard deterioration and prevent
damage from happening to the objects through the provisions of optimal
conditions of storage, use and handling. There are large number of
manuscripts and books stored in various libraries, the cost factor, time and
human resources required for applying ideal conservation treatments would
be colossal. Moreover, chemicals used for conservation of manuscripts may
not be safe for human beings who handle them. All the libraries may not have
enough facilities, equipment, funds and personnel to implement conservation

90 Hummel, R.O., & Barrow, W.J. (1956). Lamination and other methods of restoration.
Library Trends, 4(3), 261.

91 Das, S.K. (2000). Encapsulation-an aid to modern conservation. Conservation of Cultural

Property in India, 32& 33, 108.

74
treatments. Therefore, the latest trend in the international conservation field is
preventive conservation. The control measures are adopted to safeguard the
collection.

2.10 CONTROL MEASURES

We can take the preventive measures, if we have the knowledge of
cause of deterioration, by physical, biological, human and chemical factors.

2.10.1 CONTROL MEASURES FOR THE PHYSICAL FACTORS

Direct sunlight should be avoided on stack or other storage area. Day
light control devices include curtains, blinds, shutters and manual or automatic
louvers and other artificial lightning can be controlled with UV filter such as
laminated glasses, plastic films and special varnishes. Zinc oxide or titanium
dioxide, which absorbs UV rays, should be used to paint the walls and ceiling
and the light from fluorescent tubes can be reflected off them.92 Lights should
be switched off when there are no visitors seeing the manuscripts.
Manuscripts should be covered when not in use.
Heat and humidity can be controlled by air -conditioning the stack
room. The air-conditioned stack room can be kept at an ideal proportion of 21-
25 °C and to 55% of relative humidity.93 But the air- conditioning should be
round the clock with thermo control of required heat and humidity. Constant
switching air-conditioners on and off causes sharp fluctuations which damage
the manuscripts more than they are stored without air-conditioning. Water
accumulations should be avoided near collection. The collection area should
have good air circulation. Damp air, if present should be circulated out of

92 Gupta, K.K. (2007). Effect of light on manuscripts and its control. Krit Rrakshana.
Retrieved February 10, 2009 from http://www.namami.org/Kriti%20
rakshana 7vol/KA707/KA707.pdf.

93 Kishore, R. (1961). Preservation and repair of palm leaf manuscripts. The Indian Archives,
14, 73.

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room using exhaust fans. Humidity can be controlled by using silica gel in the
showcases.94
Electricity controls and fuse box should preferably be kept outside the
storage area along with dry type fire extinguishers. Paints, chemicals and
other inflammable materials should not be stored with manuscripts. Smoking
should not be allowed in the manuscript collection area.

2.10.2 CONTROL MEASURES FOR BIOLOGICAL FACTORS

Climate is the main factor for the growth of fungus and insects. They
are controlled by maintaining humidity, proper light and ventilation. Air
conditioning is a protective measure against micro organisms, insects and
dryness.
Manuscripts should be covered when not in use. The cloth used to
wrap the manuscripts should be made starch free by thorough washing
otherwise the starch may attract insects. Natural insect repellents like neem
leaves should be placed along with the manuscripts. Newly acquired
manuscripts may contain insect eggs and larva which can infect the healthy
collection. Therefore, newly acquired manuscripts should not be placed with
healthy collection without insect treatment.
Library materials should be treated with fungicide and insecticide by
fumigation method to control fungus and insects.

2.10.3 CONTROL MEASURES FOR CHEMICAL FACTORS

The dust accumulated over the object should be removed with fine
brushes. Dust can be controlled by maintaining cleanliness around and within
the manuscript collection area. Space around the building should be made
dust free by planting grass and trees.95

94 Sah, A. (2001). Mission save art heritage -3: Save palm leaf manuscript heritage.
Lucknow: INTACH, pp.6-7.

95 Talwar.V.V. (2000). Documentary heritage and atmospheric pollution. Conservation of

Cultural Property in India, 32& 33, 41-42 .

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 The air intake in the AC plants should be high up and should be in the
least polluted side of the building e.g. the side not facing the traffic. For
eliminating Sulphur dioxide and dust, fine water sprays can be used to wash
the air before it is brought into the air conditioning system. If the air pollution is
controlled there will not be any external acidity in the paper materials.

2.10.4 CONTROL MEASURES FOR HUMAN FACTORS

Users and custodians of the manuscripts should properly handle the
manuscripts. Users should be informed regarding the do’s and dont’s prior to
accessing manuscripts. Conservators should examine the manuscripts
thoroughly before giving any treatment to the manuscripts.

2.11 CONCLUSION
The art of preservation is as old as human civilization itself. Our
forefathers had judiciously selected the basic materials for writing .Plants and
their products have been recognized and used since ancient times as insect
repellant and as preservatives to safeguard the manuscripts. We have been
gradually shifting from our inherited natural methods to the world of synthetic
chemicals by deploying more and more funds and infrastructure, etc. Now the
world of document preservation is gradually becoming more and more
technology oriented. Reformatting is of key importance when the original
manuscripts are crumbling and turning to dust. Preservation through
microfilming has the advantage of long life while digitization provides
widespread access. Digitization and microfilming as a means of preservation
of the manuscripts are discussed in the next chapter entitled Digitization of
Manuscripts.

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