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Artwork

Perfection of Wisdom in Eight Thousand Lines: Ashtasahasrika Prajnaparamita: Top Cover

Perfection of Wisdom in Eight Thousand Lines: Ashtasahasrika Prajnaparamita: Top Cover, unspecified, 1119
Perfection of Wisdom in Eight Thousand Lines: Ashtasahasrika Prajnaparamita: Top Cover, unspecified, 1119

Perfection of Wisdom in Eight Thousand Lines: Ashtasahasrika Prajnaparamita: Top Cover is an unspecified painting. It dates from 1119 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art. This painting, titled Perfection of Wisdom in Eight Thousand Lines, served as the top cover for a significant Buddhist manuscript.

About this work

Overview

The artwork's function as a protective cover for sacred texts underscores its integral role in the transmission of religious knowledge.

This painting, titled Perfection of Wisdom in Eight Thousand Lines, served as the top cover for a significant Buddhist manuscript. Its elongated, narrow format features a series of eight circular vignettes arranged horizontally. Within each roundel, a figure is depicted in a serene, seated posture, contributing to the overall contemplative nature of the work. The artwork's function as a protective cover for sacred texts underscores its integral role in the transmission of religious knowledge.

Subject & Meaning

The figures portrayed within the eight roundels are understood to represent Buddhist teachers or enlightened beings. Their presence on the cover of the Ashtasahasrika Prajnaparamita manuscript directly relates to the text's content, which expounds upon "Perfection of Wisdom" teachings. This visual accompaniment would have reinforced the spiritual significance of the scripture, guiding the viewer towards the profound doctrines contained within its pages.

Technique & Style

The painting's aesthetic is characterized by its directness and subdued palette. A dominant red background frames the circular scenes, which are further delineated by gold and green borders. The seated figures exhibit varied expressions, ranging from solemnity to gentleness, despite areas where the paint has faded over time. This straightforward artistic approach emphasizes clarity in conveying its spiritual subject matter.

Artist & collection

SAME SUBJECT

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This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: Cleveland Museum of Art open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.In the collection of Cleveland Museum of Art. Compiled & edited by , Editor & Founder.