What type of drawing surface was commonly used during the Middle Ages?

During the Middle Ages, parchment emerged as a widely utilized drawing surface due to its durability and suitability for ink and other media. Parchment, made from animal skins, was preferred for manuscripts and illuminated texts because of its smooth finish, which allowed for detailed work, such as calligraphy and intricate illustrations.

The use of parchment was significant in the context of the time as it facilitated the preservation of written and artistic works, playing a vital role in the transmission of knowledge and culture throughout the era. Other materials like wood, though used for panels, were not as common for drawing in the same way, and plastic and canvas became prominent much later in art history. Hence, parchment stands out as the quintessential drawing surface of the Middle Ages.