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 Detroit Institute of Arts preserves a page from a Tantric manuscript identified as the “Sangrahani Sutra.

About this work

Overview

The Detroit Institute of Arts preserves a page from a Tantric manuscript identified as the “Sangrahani Sutra.” The sheet consists of a block of text set against a warm, beige parchment, arranged in a regular, grid‑like layout. Certain passages are rendered in red ink, drawing visual attention to particular words or phrases within the composition.

Subject & Meaning

The manuscript appears to contain a religious or spiritual discourse, likely a sutra or mantra used in Tantric practice. The highlighted red sections suggest emphasis on key doctrinal points or invocations, a common feature in texts intended for ritual recitation or meditation.

Technique & Style

Written in an unknown script, possibly a form of Sanskrit, the text is executed with a disciplined hand, employing a simple yet orderly grid to structure the verses. The use of red pigment for emphasis contrasts with the monochrome brown ink of the main body, providing a subtle visual hierarchy without ornamental distraction.

History & Provenance

The page is part of the Detroit Institute of Arts’ collection of Asian religious manuscripts. While the precise origin and date of the “Sangrahani Sutra” remain uncertain, its material qualities and script style align it with the broader tradition of medieval Tantric manuscript production in South Asia.

Context

Tantric manuscripts such as this one were typically produced for monastic or esoteric circles, serving as instructional or liturgical guides. The minimalist presentation reflects a functional purpose, prioritizing readability and the transmission of sacred content over decorative embellishment.