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 object is a painted manuscript page identified as the Tantric manuscript “Sangrahani Sutra.

About this work

Overview

The object is a painted manuscript page identified as the Tantric manuscript “Sangrahani Sutra.” Though classified as a painting, it functions as a textual document, featuring a dense block of script arranged in two parallel columns. The piece is part of the collection of the Detroit Institute of Arts and exemplifies the material culture of esoteric Buddhist literature.

Technique & Style

The page measures roughly a standard folio size and is composed of a beige‑toned support on which black ink forms the main text. Thin red lines run vertically along both the left and right margins, framing the script. The surface shows considerable age: the edges are uneven and worn, and the paper exhibits signs of repeated handling, indicating long‑term use.

History & Provenance

Currently housed in the Detroit Institute of Arts, the manuscript’s earlier ownership history is not documented in the available data. Its presence in a major American museum points to acquisition through the art market or donation, typical pathways for Asian religious manuscripts entering Western collections during the 20th century.

Context

As a tantric text, the “Sangrahani Sutra” would have been used in ritual or scholarly settings within Buddhist practice. The combination of painted decoration and textual content reflects a tradition where visual artistry and religious instruction are intertwined, offering insight into the material production of esoteric teachings.