Artwork

Text, Folio 23 (recto), from a Kalpa-sutra

Text, Folio 23 (recto), from a Kalpa-sutra, by Unknown, unspecified, 1488
Text, Folio 23 (recto), from a Kalpa-sutra, by Unknown, unspecified, 1488

Text, Folio 23 (recto), from a Kalpa-sutra is an unspecified painting by the Mughal Painting artist Unknown. It dates from 1488 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.

About this work

Overview

Text, Folio 23 (recto), from a Kalpa-sutra, is a painting depicting a single page from an ancient Indian manuscript. Characterized by its beige background, black ink text, and red accents, the work showcases a refined, ornate script within a worn red border.

Subject & Meaning

The subject is a specific folio from a Kalpa-sutra, a Jain religious text. The text's content is not specified, but its presentation suggests a sacred or significant passage, with red accents potentially highlighting important elements or marking ritual significance.

Technique & Style

Executed in black ink with red accents on a beige ground, the painting features a flowing, intricately detailed script. The style reflects traditional Indian manuscript illumination, emphasizing elegance and sophistication through flourishing calligraphy and selective color use.

History & Provenance

Details about the artist, exact date, and ownership history are not provided, leaving the work's specific origins unclear. It is attributed to the broader context of ancient Indian art, particularly Jain manuscript traditions.

Context

This folio belongs to the Kalpa-sutra tradition, central to Jain religious and literary practices. Such manuscripts were valued for both their spiritual content and aesthetic quality, often created for elite patrons or religious institutions.

Legacy

As an example of ancient Indian manuscript art, it contributes to the understanding and appreciation of Jain artistic and literary heritage. Its preservation aids in the study of historical script styles, color usage, and religious text presentation in Indian art.

Artist & collection

Artist

Unknown

entity whose identity is not known

This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: Cleveland Museum of Art open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.