Squeeze paper

A squeeze or squeeze paper is a reverse copy of an inscription, made by applying moist filter paper and pushing into the indentations by percussive use of a stiff brush. The paper is allowed to dry and then removed. The image is reversed from the inscription, and protrudes from the squeeze paper.

The use of a squeeze allows more information to be gleaned than examining the original inscription, for example curves inside the cutts can identify the scribe who originally carved the inscription.

Modern digitising methods mean that the image can be restored to the original orientation.

Large collections of squeezes are held by the Inscriptiones Graecae and other epigraphic collections.

See also

• Brass rubbing