Yamato Asuka
National Institute of Japanese Literature. Specially Appointed Assistant Professor
在欧和古書の保存修復支援に向けた日本における修復・保存管理について
和古書は紙を支持体とする資料であることから、一見すると装訂の工程を除けば画一的な手順で修復されると思われがちである。しかし実際には、資料の損傷状態のみならず、使用される紙の原料、墨や色材の性質、本紙表面に残る針穴や筋跡などの痕跡を詳細に観察した上で、さらには修復後の利用頻度や保存環境も考慮しながら修復方針が決定される。
また、修復には基本的に将来的な再修復を考慮した可逆性のある材料が用いられることが多い。膠、布海苔、小麦粉澱粉などの自然由来材料はその代表例であるが、それらを修復材料として適切に使用するためには、長年培われてきた加工技術や調製方法が存在する
本発表では、和古書修復に必要となる基本的知識について解説するとともに、具体的事例をもとに、修復方針がどのように決定されるのかを紹介する。また、日本とは異なる気候・保存環境を有する欧州において、和古書の修復および保存管理を行う際に留意すべき点についても取り上げる。
Basic Knowledge of Conservation and Preservation Management in Japan for Supporting Premodern Japanese Books in Europe
Since traditional Japanese books are paper-based materials, it is often assumed that their conservation follows standardized methods, aside from differences in binding structures. In practice, however, conservation approaches are determined based on careful observation of each item’s condition, including the degree of deterioration, the fiber composition of the paper, the properties of inks and pigments, and traces remaining on the surface, such as needle holes and crease marks. In addition, the anticipated frequency of use and the storage environment are also taken into account in determining appropriate treatment policies.
Additionally in conservation practice, reversible materials with reversible properties are used in many cases, taking into account the possibility of future re-treatment.
Naturally derived materials such as nikawa (animal glue), funori (seaweed adhesive), wheat starch paste are representative examples. Their proper use as conservation materials relies on processing techniques and preparation methods that have been developed and refined over many years.
This presentation describes the fundamental knowledge required for the conservation of traditional Japanese books and illustrates how conservation approaches are determined through selected case studies. It also addresses considerations relevant to the conservation and management of traditional Japanese books in Europe, where climatic and storage conditions are different from those in Japan.