Exceptional Illuminated Manuscripts at the Gulbenkian Museum: The Colors of a Bible and Three Gospels Produced in the Armenian Diaspora

The illuminated manuscripts at the Gulbenkian Museum were produced in 17th century, scriptoria of Armenian diaspora. In this work, we selected analytical methods that can be used situ to study colors illuminations. Scientific analysis based on fiber-optics reflectance spectroscopy visible and Raman has shown use a medieval palette inorganic pigments such as lapis lazuli, minium, vermilion, orpiment, indigo, two different greens (vergaut malachite), lead white carbon black. More importantly, context, it showed very important reds pinks are possibly carminic acid. painting technique is, however, different, ways faces, hands, vestments. range Bible three Gospel Books, enhanced by lazuli blue organic pinks, demonstrates desire create exceptional manuscripts.