Artwork
Text, Folio 128 (recto), from a Manuscript of the Perfection of Wisdom in Eight Thousand Lines (Ashtasahasrika Prajnaparamita-sutra)
Text, Folio 128 (recto), from a Manuscript of the Perfection of Wisdom in Eight Thousand Lines (Ashtasahasrika Prajnaparamita-sutra) is an unspecified painting by Unknown. It dates from 14 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art. This wooden block, Folio 128 (recto), originates from a manuscript of the Ashtasahasrika Prajnaparamita-sutra, a Buddhist scripture.
About this work
Overview
This wooden block, Folio 128 (recto), originates from a manuscript of the Ashtasahasrika Prajnaparamita-sutra, a Buddhist scripture. It features raised dots arranged in rows, forming text lines without letters, indicating a unique, pre-printing press method for reproducing Buddhist texts.
Subject & Meaning
The block's design facilitates the replication of the Perfection of Wisdom in Eight Thousand Lines, a key Mahayana Buddhist text. The patterned dots, when inked, would print sacred scripture, highlighting the block's role in disseminating Buddhist teachings.
Technique & Style
The block showcases a pre-mechanical printing technique: carved, raised dots in neat rows on wood. Intended for hand-printing, the dots would transfer text via ink application, demonstrating an early, labor-intensive method of textual reproduction.
History & Provenance
While specific historical and ownership details are not provided, the block's function suggests use in a pre-printing press era Buddhist scriptorium or monastery, likely in an Asian region where such scriptures were prevalent.
Context
This block reflects the importance of manuscript reproduction in Buddhism before mechanical printing. Its design and purpose align with the tradition of painstakingly copying sacred texts for dissemination among Buddhist communities.
Legacy
As an early example of a printing block for Buddhist texts, it illustrates the evolutionary path of printing technology. Similar artifacts can be found at institutions like The Cleveland Museum of Art, offering insights into ancient textual reproduction methods.
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
Text, Folio 65 (recto), from a Manuscript of the Perfection of Wisdom in Eight Thousand Lines (Ashtasahasrika Prajnaparamita-sutra)
Text, Folio 95 (recto), from a Manuscript of the Perfection of Wisdom in Eight Thousand Lines (Ashtasahasrika Prajnaparamita-sutra)
Text, Folio 138 (recto), from a Manuscript of the Perfection of Wisdom in Eight Thousand Lines (Ashtasahasrika Prajnaparamita-sutra)
Text, folio 172 (recto), from a Manuscript of the Perfection of Wisdom in Eight Thousand Lines (Ashtasahasrika Prajnaparamita-sutra)
Text, Folio 69 (recto), from a Manuscript of the Perfection of Wisdom in Eight Thousand Lines (Ashtasahasrika Prajnaparamita-sutra)
Text, Folio 83 (recto), from a Manuscript of the Perfection of Wisdom in Eight Thousand Lines (Ashtasahasrika Prajnaparamita-sutra)
Text, Folio 64 (recto), from a Manuscript of the Perfection of Wisdom in Eight Thousand Lines (Ashtasahasrika Prajnaparamita-sutra)
Text, Folio 127 (recto), from a Manuscript of the Perfection of Wisdom in Eight Thousand Lines (Ashtasahasrika Prajnaparamita-sutra)
Text, Folio 111 (recto), from a Manuscript of the Perfection of Wisdom in Eight Thousand Lines (Ashtasahasrika Prajnaparamita-sutra)