Frustrated by the lack of a concise compilation of research into the pigments used by medieval artists for painting various works of art, Britni Patterson decided to create one as a reference for all students of the historical art of illumination.

Taking advantage of the newest techniques of manuscript analysis, this monograph compiles not only the information found in medieval treatises, but also 32 Raman spectroscopic analyses that prove definitive information regarding the actual pigments used on manuscripts and other artifacts dated to pre-seventeenth century use.

This monograph includes a list of 66 pigments along with charts showing their use throughout time, and the locations of use, describes how to mix your own paint with historically accurate binders, and explains the techniques necessary to successfully emulate the medieval artist.