An Illuminated Apocalypse of the Old Believer Community of Kazashko Village, Bulgaria

Abstract

This study deals with the research and conservation of an illuminated manuscript that began in 1989 and, after a long hiatus, was completed in 2024. Work methods used in the past and today are compared, alongside discussion of conservation equipment and materials, which have advanced considerably. Today, new non-destructive methods of analysis are available to those working with such valuable and fragile objects of written cultural heritage. The importance of interdisciplinary teamwork in research and conservation is highlighted. Eight appendices provide additional information, diagrams and analysis results to facilitate searching in the digitized manuscript and enable new research and interpretations.