External
In this one-day workshop, hosted at the British Library, Dr. Karin Scheper of the University of Leiden will lead attendees on a survey of manuscript making in the Islamic world, with a focus on the binding structure of codex volumes, discussing the predominant structure as well as region-specific characteristics and varieties.
Dr. Scheper will detail the strengths and functionality of this bookbinding method, in order to understand the composite structure of Islamic bindings and the use of materials in these structures, helping participants to recognise the special needs of these objects when they are damaged and need conservation care. Treatment options will also be discussed.
Schedule
The day will begin with a theoretical portion, illustrated richly by Powerpoint presentations and fleshed out further with models and material examples at hand for attendees to handle and observe, including manuscripts from the British Library's collections.
While time will not permit practical experience in binding repairs, a few intervention options for broken joints and damage to the sewing structure will be demonstrated on a damaged mock-up provided by Dr. Scheper.
There will be special focus on the functionality of the endband structure, which can often be the linchpin of a conservation treatment. The day will include a practical component, making a model of an Islamic-style endband on card to take home for research and study purposes.
Tickets include tea and coffee during planned breaks.
