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.
About this work
Overview
This Tantric manuscript painting, titled 'Sangrahani Sutra', is a rare example of medieval Indian religious art, specifically from the Buddhist Tantric tradition. Executed on a manuscript page, it combines intricate text with vivid illustrations.
Subject & Meaning
The 'Sangrahani Sutra' manuscript illustrates key concepts of Tantric Buddhism, focusing on the attainment of enlightenment through ritual and meditation. Figures depicted include bodhisattvas, deities, and possibly the Buddha, surrounded by symbolic motifs such as lotus flowers and mandalas, emphasizing spiritual growth and the cosmos.
Technique & Style
Characterized by fine lines, detailed miniatures, and a predominantly earth-tone palette with accents of blue and red, the painting reflects the stylistic influences of medieval Indian manuscript illumination, blending realism with symbolic abstraction.
History & Provenance
Originating from the Indian subcontinent, likely between the 12th to 14th centuries, the manuscript's exact provenance is unclear due to lack of documentation prior to its 20th-century acquisition by a Western collection.
Context
Created during a period of flourishing Tantric practices in India, the manuscript served as a religious text for scholars and practitioners, facilitating the study and practice of advanced Buddhist teachings.
Legacy
As one of the few surviving Tantric manuscripts with illustrations from this period, 'Sangrahani Sutra' provides invaluable insight into medieval Indian religious art and the dissemination of Tantric Buddhism, influencing subsequent manuscript traditions in the region.
Artist & collection
Domestic Scene
Giacomo and Cardinal Marco, investing Andrea, Abbot of San Zeno, with his Benefice
The Nymph of Fontainebleau
Portrait of a Woman
Madonna and Child with Saints in the Enclosed Garden
Venus and Minerva
Family Group of Four on Sofa
Wall painting from Room H of the Villa of P. Fannius Synistor at Boscoreale
Tantric Manuscript, "Sangrahani Sutra"
Tantric Manuscript, "Sangrahani Sutra"
Tantric Manuscript, "Sangrahani Sutra"
Tantric Manuscript, "Sangrahani Sutra"
Tantric Manuscript, "Sangrahani Sutra"
Tantric Manuscript, "Sangrahani Sutra"
Tantric Manuscript, "Sangrahani Sutra"
Tantric Manuscript, "Sangrahani Sutra"
Tantric Manuscript, "Sangrahani Sutra"
Tantric Manuscript "Sangrahani Sutra"
Tantric Manuscript, "Sangrahani Sutra"
Tantric Manuscript, "Sangrahani Sutra"