What was parchment paper traditionally made from?

Parchment paper was traditionally made from animal skin, specifically the skins of sheep, goats, or calves. The process of making parchment involved cleaning and stretching the skin, then drying it under tension to create a smooth writing surface. This method was favored in historical contexts before the widespread use of paper made from wood pulp.

Animal skin provided a durable and flexible material, making it suitable for manuscripts and other important documents throughout history. The use of parchment continued for centuries in various cultures, notably in medieval Europe, where it was the primary medium for writing before the invention of modern paper. Understanding the composition of parchment helps illustrate the evolution of writing materials and techniques in art and historical documentation.