Artwork

Text, Folio 133 (recto), from a Manuscript of the Perfection of Wisdom in Eight Thousand Lines (Ashtasahasrika Prajnaparamita-sutra)

Text, Folio 133 (recto), from a Manuscript of the Perfection of Wisdom in Eight Thousand Lines (Ashtasahasrika Prajnaparamita-sutra) is an unspecified painting by the Byzantine icon painting artist Unknown. It dates from 14 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art. This wooden board, Folio 133 (recto), is part of an ancient manuscript of the Ashtasahasrika Prajnaparamita-sutra, a key Buddhist text.

About this work

Overview

This wooden board, Folio 133 (recto), is part of an ancient manuscript of the Ashtasahasrika Prajnaparamita-sutra, a key Buddhist text. It features three rows of raised dots forming lines of text in Newar script, facilitating tactile reading.

Subject & Meaning

The subject is the Buddhist scripture, the Perfection of Wisdom in Eight Thousand Lines. The raised dots enable blind individuals to engage with this fundamental Buddhist text, emphasizing inclusivity in spiritual practice.

Technique & Style

The manuscript utilizes a precursor to Braille, with manually raised dots in Newar script. The wooden medium and worn appearance, including two small holes, attest to its age and use.

History & Provenance

Originating from a Buddhist tradition, the exact provenance is unspecified, though similar examples can be found at The Cleveland Museum of Art, suggesting a South Asian, possibly Nepalese, origin.

Context

Created for a Buddhist community, this folio reflects the tradition's emphasis on accessibility and the dissemination of sacred texts through innovative, tactile methods.