Seite - 261 - in The Vienna Genesis - Material analysis and conservation of a Late Antique illuminated manuscript on purple parchment

Sophie Rabitsch, Christa Hofmann, Junko Sonderegger 261 folio 24, page 47. Some waxy residues might originate from efforts to consolidate the paint layers with beeswax. Regarding the age of the Vienna Genesis, the miniatures appear to be generally quite stable in their current condition. Under magnification, on most folios localized areas of cracking and loose paint layers needing consolidation were detected. Mixtures incorporating lead white, especially incarnate, ochre, and some blue areas seem to be more unstable, presumably due to the drying nature and the weight of lead white. Conservation strategy The objectives of the conservation treatment were the stabilisation of the current condition of the manuscript in the full richness of its authenticity6. The original materials as well as any traces of its manufacture should not be altered, and the visual appearance had to be preserved. Historical repairs should be respected, as long as they do not pose any danger. Further research or conservation, if necessary, should be possible. The storage conditions should prevent any changes of the integrity of parchment, inks and miniatures. Together with the director of the Department of Manuscripts and Rare books, Andreas Fingernagel, 6 Janis, 2005, pp. 179–189. Fig. 26: Corresponding lacunas in the miniature paintings on folios 23, page 46, and 24, page 47. Open-Access-Publikation im Sinne der CC-Lizenz BY 4.0