dáwà

Ingredients

leaves of jónbà (Diospyros mespiliformis), leaves of táfè (Combertum glutinosum), bark of xánbà (Terminalia laxiflora), kánbàré (gum arabic)

Preparation Steps

Original Recipe Text

The ink is produced by boiling the leaves of specific trees. According to consultant LC, leaves of the jónbà (Diospyros mespiliformis) are used (p. 51, Note 222). Consultant MD specifies the use of táfè (Combertum glutinosum) leaves, or alternatively, the bark of the xánbà (Terminalia laxiflora) (p. 51, Note 222). Gum arabic (kánbàré) is added as a binder. The preparation is described as a 'long process' taking several days to result in a 'durable ink of saturated colour' (p. 51).

Evidence

"The inks (dáwà) of black-brownish colour, depending on their usage, were produced following different recipes. The one for writing on paper is made by boiling the leaves of certain plants, with the addition of gum arabic (kánbàré)."

Remarks

Each scribe traditionally produces his own ink (p. 51). The ink is noted for its durability when used on paper. However, some instances of fading are noted in historical manuscripts, such as the colophon of a Risāla al-Qayrawānīyya in Ziguinchor (p. 43).