The aim of this study is to investigate a comprehensive dataset related to fiber identification in historical manuscript papers. Previous research in this field was limited to small collections and did not focus on specific historical periods. To address this gap, this study examines the fiber characteristics of 50 historical manuscripts from the Timurid period, preserved in the manuscript repository of the Astan Quds Razavi Library. The fibers were identified using microscopic methods based on morphological and biometric features, along with Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) analysis.

According to historical sources, non-wood fibers such as flax and hemp were traditionally used in early Iranian papermaking. The results of this study confirmed that the fibers used in the production of the 50 Timurid paper samples were primarily hemp and flax. The pulp also contained calcium carbonate and alum with very low lignin content, and the sizing agents were starch and gelatin. Furthermore, it was determined that if a sample contains cotton fibers, it does not belong to the Timurid period.

Additionally, based on historical sources, it can be inferred that by recognizing the structural similarities and differences among manuscript papers, it is possible to approximately date undated samples through comparative analysis. However, further research and more extensive studies are needed to solidify these findings.