Malay manuscript black inks : recipes, reproduction and analysis [EMBARGOED]

Abstract

Carbon black ink was commonly used for writing Malay manuscripts. Due to a limited supply of traditional ink, local people resorted to producing ink using their own material and techniques. There is limited research on the types of ink and colourants used in these manuscripts, therefore, this study intends to develop black ink formulas utilizing carbon-based sources. The objectives are: (i) to identify the ingredients used in the traditional Malay black ink recipes, (ii) to document the formula of the selected traditional carbon-based ink recipes and (iii) to analyse the quality level of the ink produced for different formulation. The data are extracted from various local and international literary sources. Based on the previous information retrieved from the earlier works on traditional Malay black inks, this study embarks on visual and scientific methods to determine the formula had been used for centuries. The study combines pigments, binders, dryers, and base solvents to create the ink formula. The samples are examine for distinctive properties such as their high performance, fast drying, fluidity, and non-feathering. The carbon sources used include lamp black, wooden charcoal, Senduduk seeds, bamboo charcoal, and Merbau extract, while the binding medium is a mixture of cashew nutshell oil and burnt glutinous rice, and the solvent used is distilled water. The additives and drier are palm vinegar, virgin coconut oil, salt, and black pepper. The study creates 38 ink formulations by varying the quantity of each component and tests them on different type of substrates such as European handmade paper, Chinese paper, Dluwang, drawing and art (glossy) paper to verify its quality. The research employs experimentation, physical observation, pH test, drying and fluidity test as well as scientific analysis using methods such as Chromameter and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) to identify the characteristic of the formulated ink. Based on the analyses conducted, the handmade European paper, Dluwang, and drawing paper were found to be the most suitable substrates during experimentation. Furthermore, the results showed that bamboo charcoal demonstrated superior quality and ink performance in relation to colour consistency, fluidity, non-feathering, smell, and texture. The pH value of the formulated ink is typically acidic owing to the presence of additives such as palm vinegar, black pepper, and salt, which can influence the ink's acidity level. The Chromameter readings reveal that the colour of the formulated ink is darker than that of the Senduduk seeds, which have a dark purple hue. This research is significant for heritage conservation studies as it aims to preserve existing manuscripts that use natural sources for ink and colourants. The invention of ink had a profound impact on language, civilization, and culture heritage. In conclusion, the traditional black ink recipes that has been passed down through generations, preserving the knowledge and traditions of the Malay region.