Multiple Microanalyses of a Sample from the Vinland Map

Research output: Contribution to journalJournal articleResearchpeer-review

  • D. V.P. Sommer
  • K. Mühlen Axelsson
  • Collins, Matthew James
  • S. Fiddyment
  • J. Bredal-Jørgensen
  • K. P. Simonsen
  • C. B. Lauridsen
  • R. Larsen

A sample of the Vinland Map remaining from the radiocarbon dating was analysed with the purpose of identifying the post-1950 contaminant and establishing other evidence on the material composition, identity and condition. The analyses revealed that the parchment originates from a bovid and contains hair remnants. The fibre structure was in poor condition, with fragmented collagen fibres and a low hydrothermal stability. Greenish and reddish particles were observed on the parchment. The greenish particles were identified as basic copper(II) chloride, most probably atacamite, and the reddish particles as rust; that is, various iron(III) oxides. The extracted modern contaminant was identified as being naturally produced glycerol monostearate.

Original languageEnglish
JournalArchaeometry
Volume59
Issue number2
Pages (from-to)287-301
ISSN0003-813X
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - Apr 2017
Externally publishedYes

    Research areas

  • atacamite, collagen, multiple microanalyses, organic contaminant, parchment, Vinland Map

ID: 227734212