Who painted Tantric Manuscript, "Sangrahani Sutra"?

Tantric Manuscript, "Sangrahani Sutra" was painted by Unknown.

Where can I see Tantric Manuscript, "Sangrahani Sutra"?

Tantric Manuscript, "Sangrahani Sutra" is held by Detroit Institute of Arts.

Artwork

Tantric Manuscript, "Sangrahani Sutra"

Tantric Manuscript, "Sangrahani Sutra" is an unspecified painting by Unknown. It is held in the collection of the Detroit Institute of Arts. The work is a painted Tantric manuscript illustration titled “Sangrahani Sutra.

About this work

Overview

The work is a painted Tantric manuscript illustration titled “Sangrahani Sutra.” It consists of two concentric circular motifs stacked vertically, each filled with vivid pigments and intricate ornamental patterns, set against a red‑green ground.

Subject & Meaning

The upper circle combines a blue field dotted with fine points and a pink area adorned with a stylized leaf motif, while the lower circle presents a red field punctuated by a pink crescent. Such iconography is typical of tantric visual language, where geometric forms and vegetal symbols convey esoteric concepts.

Technique & Style

The artist employed fine brushwork to render dense dotting and delicate leaf designs, achieving a high level of surface decoration. The palette relies on saturated primary colors—blue, red, pink—contrasted with a multicolored background, reflecting the vivid aesthetic of Indian manuscript illumination.

History & Provenance

The piece is catalogued within the collection of the Detroit Institute of Arts, which houses a range of comparable tantric and Buddhist manuscripts. Its exact origin, date, and previous ownership are not detailed in the available information.

Context

Tantric manuscripts such as this one functioned as visual aids for ritual practice and meditation, often accompanying sutras that outline esoteric teachings. The circular compositions echo mandala structures used to focus the practitioner’s attention during contemplation.