AIC's 52nd Annual Meeting

Sắc phong are official decrees or edicts issued by the Vietnamese imperial court, typically by the emperor. The historic craft of creating these documents was previously veiled in royal secrecy and lost since the fall of the feudal state. The knowledge of materials used and subsequent conservation implications remain unknown. The current study comprises an analysis of two Sắc phong imperial manuscripts and a replica, brought from Vietnam to the Garman Art Conservation Department in 2022. The goal of the analysis was to investigate the materials and historical techniques used to better understand their creation and potentially inform future conservation efforts.

Sắc phong were composed in Chữ Nôm (Sino-Vietnamese) characters on special yellow handmade paper, adorned with depictions of spiritual animals and imperial symbols. These decrees served as authoritative documents for various purposes, including legal, administrative, and ceremonial matters. They embodied imperial authority and conveyed the ruler’s commands, carrying significant legal weight in the society of their time. Sắc phong played a pivotal role in the governance and administration of Vietnam throughout its history. They were instrumental in conveying orders, codifying laws, acknowledging achievements, and documenting significant events. Sắc phong hold a prominent place in Vietnam’s cultural heritage, reflecting the nation’s historical governance and administrative practices. They are cherished for their artistic and historical significance.

An investigation of historic and modern methods of making this type of paper was undertaken. This included contacting local papermakers in Vietnam and collecting samples of the fibers used for analysis and identification. Comparative studies were conducted using polarized microscopy to examine the differences between Dó, a common Vietnamese papermaking fiber, and Japanese Kozo fiber to gain a deeper understanding of their characteristics. Liquid chromatography equipped with detection by diode array spectrophotometry and mass spectrometry (LC-DAD-MS) were used to analyze the paper dye comprehensively. In tandem, we performed X-ray fluorescence spectroscopy (XRF) to identify the gilding materials used. Various imaging techniques were applied to further examine the manuscript's manufacturing process.

The results indicate that the scroll was created through a combination of woodblock printing and free-hand drawing. Dó, while being a unique paper-making fiber, shares similar bast fiber characteristics with Kozo fiber. Several natural and synthetic dyes, including rutin extracted from the dried flower buds of the Sophora tree, were identified as the primary components used for paper dyeing. XRF analysis reveals a substantial presence of copper and zinc, suggesting the use of brass pigment and possibly influenced by Western techniques.

As limited published scientific investigation exists regarding the materials and techniques employed in the creation of this type of manuscript, further understanding of the materials and their processing is pivotal for extending their longevity through preventive conservation efforts. It is hoped that this study provides a starting point for further research into Sắc phong and possibly facilitates the revival of this forgotten art.