The Repoussé Metal Covers of Georgian Gospels From the Twelfth – Thirteenth Centuries: Assessment Results

The unique Georgian codices with covers made of precious metals and inlaid with gems are among the most prized treasures of the Kekelidze Georgian National Centre of Manuscripts. A comprehensive study of 57 manuscripts was undertaken as part of the interdisciplinary project ‘Analysis of the Repoussé Metal Artefacts (Covers of the Twelfth – Thirteenth-Century Georgian Manuscripts)’ undertaken by the National Centre of Manuscripts. A total of 919 stones were identified; the alloys were subjected to a series of selective non-invasive tests using a handheld XRF analyser, and tentative chemical composition of ‘Byzantine’ glass stones used to embellish the Tskarostavi Four Gospels was established. The principal goal of the project was to evaluate the metal covers of Old Georgian manuscript Gospel books for restoration and conservation purposes.
The paper presents findings from the analysis of the repoussé metal covers of Georgian manuscript Gospel books dating back to the twelfth – thirteenth centuries, namely the Berta (Q-906), Tskarostavi (Q-907) and Tbeti (Q-929) Gospels. The unique Four Gospels are particularly noteworthy because of the authenticity of their repoussé metal covers (a rare occurrence) and their exquisiteness which reveals traces of cultural contacts with the Byzantine world.
Metal tests were performed with the help of a handheld XRF Olympus Delta Analyser.
The composition of the alloy was established and the theoretical basis for subsequent conservation works was prepared; a comparative analysis of the three covers was conducted to determine the alloy production technologies and distinctive features of the artistic style of Beka and Beshken Opizrebi on the one hand, and the master of the Tbeti Gospel on the other; additional evidence on ancient artistic metals was obtained by determining the composition and purity of twelfth-century silver alloys, which may help to date the manuscript covers; the thickness of the gilding was also established.
Gemmological and codicological studies of the colourful inserts and pearl decorations were conducted to determine the authenticity of the metal covers and identify traces of restoration. Particular attention is paid to three ‘Byzantine’ glass inserts on the cover of the Tskarostavi Gospel which formed part of the original décor; their composition, colouring elements and characteristic signs of glass corrosion are discussed.