So looks like a Medieval book historian at Leiden University in the Netherlands made an interesting discovery. Erik Kwakkel thought he had been the first historian to find
this publication on how to make watercolor paints from the 17th century. Unfortunately, for him it appears another historian has been looking at this book. Anyhow, what makes this interesting is the different colors of coatings within the publication. It is almost like this is the original “pantone manuscript.” The images in the book are truly interesting considering it is the 17th century and someone had been painting and documenting the different colors. The colors also varied based on the amount of water used. To read more about Erik Kwakkel check out his blog here.
To check out the manuscript, book, or coatings directory I am referring to click here.