The Value and Types of Manuscripts

Abstract

Manuscripts refer to written texts created manually by hand. These are texts that have neither been printed nor produced through any mechanical means. In this context, the focus is on ancient and historical handwritten manuscripts. Such texts represent the historical, scientific, literary, religious, and cultural values and identity of a nation. The significance of manuscripts lies in their antiquity, elegant calligraphy, and their academic, literary, and cultural dimensions. Moreover, their bindings were often adorned with gold and lapis lazuli inks, further enhancing their value and prestige. The manuscripts were often rich in miniature illustrations and decorative art. These texts were widely used before the advent of modern printing technology, serving purposes such as record-keeping, documentation, preservation of religious and literary texts, and communication. These handwritten efforts began when humans first acquired the ability to write, using natural dyes on bird feathers, animal skins, bones, tree leaves, and bark reflecting the cultural practices and technological limits of that era. Later, papyrus sheets became a common writing material. In the modern era, printed and digital formats have replaced these handwritten forms, making the previous laborious processes more efficient and accessible. Manuscripts vary greatly in terms of quality, condition, value, and form. External materials used in their creation include paper, ink, writing boards, pens (reed or nib pens), bindings, feathers, scissors, pen sharpeners, brushes, burins, punchers, rulers, strings, and more.