Written by the Fiveable Content Team โข Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 examโขWritten by the Fiveable Content Team โข Last updated September 2025
Definition
Vellum is a type of parchment made from animal skin (usually calf or sheep) that has been specially prepared for writing or painting. It was widely used as a writing surface before paper became more common.
Related terms
Parchment: A general term for writing surfaces made from animal skin, including both vellum and parchment.
Manuscript: A handwritten document, often referring to books created before the invention of the printing press.