Methods of Using Vellum in Botanical Illustrations

- Painting techniques used in early modern works and measures for better preservation -

Abstract

Vellum is a type of parchment, which is a classical substrate that had been used before the dissemination of paper. As the use of vellum for modern botanical illustrations has increased in the Western countries, it has also been gaining attention here in Japan. However, there is minimal research focusing on its practical usage. This paper will discuss the properties of vellum in creating botanical watercolour illustrations from the standpoint of an artist, and present practical methods for using this material while considering its preservation as well as useful painting techniques.

The botanical illustrations on vellum made in early modern Europe were investigated in terms of their deterioration over time, the conservation methods, and the painting techniques employed. The usage of vellum in modern works, manufacturing method of modern parchment and its quality were also studied.

It is considered that the quality of vellum determines the degree of degradation, and curling and cockling are induced by humidity fluctuations. Artists are suggested to select calfskin vellum of uniform thickness and colour, maintain a proper storage environment, and fix vellum on a stout substrate.

Transitions through the eras had caused changes in the quality of vellum, the side selected as the painting surface, and painting techniques. The author verified the usefulness of the painting techniques found in early modern botanical illustrations.