Use of infrared imaging in contemporary source studies

The paper gives a brief overview of infrared (IR) imaging techniques and the cases of their applying to the study of ancient manuscripts and objects of cultural heritage. The method of IR reflectography is used in fine art research, which allows the visualization of details hidden by the paint layers with the help of a scanner. There are also the cases, when IR reflectography is implemented into papyrology with the purpose to make ancient papyri, that turned dark-brown, more legible. Thermography is also used both in studies of cultural heritage and written documents, such as research of bookbinding and supports. Multispectral analysis is a well-proven method of text visualization and digital restoration of ancient manuscripts, which usually is applied in palimpsest decipher. Than the paper considers the method that includes part of IR spectrum is hyperspectral analysis. It is also used in papyrology. Finally, the author observed method of near-infrared imaging (NIRI) and its use for different purposes of the source studies. The paper concludes by arguing the relevance of near-infrared analysis of paper-based historical documents as a key-element of source study. NIRI allows researchers to obtain digital copies of watermarks and investigate corrections of the text made with different inks. The paper provides reader with the technical recommendations on basic NIRI equipment. To sum up, the author declares that there is a possibility for NIRI to become an everyday routine practice for researchers in near future due to its ability to provide a basic analysis of paper, watermarks and ink.