Within the framework of a joint work between the Museum and the Library, an important process of conservation and digitization of the Great Book of Income, a unique piece, was carried out.
This copy, which is part of the permanent exhibition of the “Héctor Carlos Janson” Museum, stands out for its historical value and for its exceptional material characteristics: a large-format volume, bound in leather, with metal clasps engraved with the initials “R.A.” (Argentine Republic) and a bronze plaque on the cover with its original title.
A work to preserve history
During the intervention, mechanical cleaning was carried out, samples of paper fibres were taken and the inks were analysed, with the aim of assessing their condition and preventing possible deterioration processes.
Finally, the state of conservation of the book was recorded, generating technical documentation that will serve for future preservation actions.
How was the process?
- Mechanical
cleaningFirst step in the conservation process. It allows to remove dust and residues that can deteriorate surfaces. It is done with brushes and specific tools. - Fiber
intakeIt allows the type of paper to be identified and its origin, authenticity and level of deterioration to be understood, key information to define preservation strategies. - Ink
AnalysisUsing magnifying glasses and optical techniques, the type of ink used and its behaviour over time are determined, which allows possible fading or damage to be anticipated. - Document
RegistrationIt consists of documenting the state of conservation and all the interventions carried out, generating a technical reference history.
What makes the book unique?
The book, which has 559 pages, (of which 115 contain recorded information) has extraordinary materials and measures.
Materials:
- Bound in embossed leather
- Golden Edges
- Metal ornamental closures
- Bronze Plate
Measurement:
- Weighs more than 17kg (17,400g)
- It measures 49 cm high, 34 cm wide and 12 cm thick.
What is the origin of the Great Book of Income?
The Great Book of Revenues and Public Funds was created by the Law of Organization of National Public Credit, sanctioned by Congress and promulgated on November 16, 1863.
The regulation established a formal system for registering credits recognized by the National State, consolidating them in a single official registry administered by the National Public Credit Administration Board.
In this book were recorded the credits recognized “in accordance with the laws enacted by Congress”, corresponding to the creditors of the Nation in Public Funds.
Commitment
This work is part of the institutional commitment to the preservation of documentary heritage and the dissemination of national historical memory.
Museum
To see the Great Book of Rentals, come to the Museum from Monday to Friday, from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Admission is free (San Martín 216 CABA). If you would like to arrange a guided tour, please contact museo@bcra.gob.ar by email.
To consult and learn about the funds belonging to the National Public Credit Archive, I wrote to biblio@bcra.gob.ar.
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