faksimiléutgave

A faksimiléutgave, also known as a facsimile edition or simply a facsimile, is a reproduction of an original document that aims to be as identical as possible to the original in appearance. This includes replicating the size, color, and often the material of the original, such as paper type or even the presence of aging or damage. The goal is to provide a faithful copy that allows for study and appreciation of the original without risking its preservation.

Facsimile editions are particularly important for rare, fragile, or historically significant documents like manuscripts, early printed books, maps, or artworks. They enable scholars, collectors, and the general public to access and examine these materials in detail, which might otherwise be inaccessible due to their rarity or delicate condition. The process of creating a facsimile typically involves high-resolution photography or scanning, followed by meticulous printing techniques to match the original's visual characteristics.

While a facsimile aims for visual accuracy, it is not an original. It does not possess the same historical provenance or intrinsic value as the artifact it represents. However, it serves a crucial purpose in preserving and disseminating knowledge and cultural heritage by offering a tangible, albeit replicated, connection to the past. The term "faksimiléutgave" is commonly used in Scandinavian languages.