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Hidden in Plain Sight: Below the Surface

A close up image of a page of a manuscript book.Hidden in Plain Sight: Below the Surface - Hands-On Exploration of Innovative Technologies in the Study of Medieval Books and Objects

Directed by Flavia Fiorillo, Noam Lefler, and Suzanne Paul

When: Wednesday 09 July, 16.30-18.00
Where: Parkinson Building: Treasures of the Brotherton Gallery
This event is free of charge.

Medieval manuscripts are complex objects, whose material analysis can shed light on their creation and use. Innovative technologies can reveal hidden elements and help unfold the complex history of the book. This session will take place in the Sheppard Room of the Treasures Gallery, using books from Leeds University Special Collections for a hands-on demonstration of microscopy, multispectral imaging, and spectroscopy in exploring the materiality of manuscripts.

Come and learn how new technologies can transform the way we study medieval books and objects. In this session, our team of scientists, imaging specialists, and historians will explore medieval manuscripts from Leeds University Library, using a range of microscopes, light sources, cameras, and scanners. You’ll also learn more about the work and discoveries of the major AHRC-funded Hidden in Plain Sight research project, which furthers the use of advanced scientific technologies within historical studies. We have been employing new technologies to assist in studying the alteration and transformation of books and textual objects, evident, for example, in mutilation, folding, or overpainting. The project team will join the IMC to present the project’s scope and initial findings, and to introduce key scientific methods, their potential, and limitations. You are also welcome to our reception on the Tuesday, where the team will be happy to answer questions or ideas related to your own research over drinks and nibbles.

Workshop leaders include Flavia Fiorillo, Heritage Scientist (Cambridge University Library and the Fitzwilliam Museum ), Noam Lefler, Historian (Queen Mary University of London), and Suzanne Paul, Keeper of Rare Books and Early Manuscripts (Cambridge University Library).