Conservation Strategies for Palm-Leaf Manuscripts from Yunnan, China

Abstract Palm-leaf manuscripts served as a primary documentary medium across South and Southeast Asia prior to paper’s ascendancy. China’s Yunnan and Xizang regions preserve significant collections of these cultural artifacts; however, standardized conservation protocols remain underdeveloped. This investigation pioneers systematic analysis of incised palm-leaf manuscripts in Yunnan repositories, establishing a novel typology for damages and corresponding customized conservation strategies. Through empirical examination, five characteristic types of deterioration were identified. Aiming at restoring the structural integrity and functionality of palm-leaf manuscripts, the conservation strategy integrates damage classification, cleaning and stain removal, repair and reinforcement, flattening, binding restoration, and protective housing. The results demonstrate that composite fillers (palm-leaf’s powder, pulp, fiber strip, and infills) with chemical composition and physical properties matching those of the manuscript, ensure the compatibility of the repair materials. Additionally, the adhesives used in this study can be safely removed under specific conditions, effecting the reversibility of the intervention. These materials have sufficient durability under standard preservation conditions, ensuring the long-term stability of the restored areas. This study not only provides a feasible technical path for the conservation of palm-leaf manuscripts in Yunnan but also offers important guidance and references regarding conservation and preservation research for institutions worldwide that collect engraved palm-leaf manuscripts.