Artwork
Text, Folio 65 (verso), from a Manuscript of the Perfection of Wisdom in Eight Thousand Lines (Ashtasahasrika Prajnaparamita-sutra)
Text, Folio 65 (verso), 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.
About this work
Overview
This 11th-century wooden panel, originating from a manuscript of the Ashtasahasrika Prajnaparamita-sutra, features a unique arrangement of tiny, precise holes forming patterns that mimic text. The absence of ink and the presence of three central circular holes suggest a functional rather than purely aesthetic purpose.
Subject & Meaning
The panel is associated with a Buddhist scripture, indicating its role in the reproduction or creation of sacred texts. The 'text' formed by holes may represent a specific portion of the Prajnaparamita-sutra, highlighting the importance of written Buddhist teachings.
Technique & Style
The panel showcases meticulous craftsmanship with evenly spaced, tiny holes arranged in neat rows, characteristic of medieval Indian or Southeast Asian manuscript technologies. The three central holes likely served as guides for alignment or tracing.
History & Provenance
Created over 900 years ago, this panel is part of a larger manuscript of the Ashtasahasrika Prajnaparamita-sutra. Its exact origin (Indian or Southeast Asian) and journey to its current collection are not detailed here, reflecting the complexities of tracing ancient artifacts.
Context
This panel would have been used in a religious or scholarly setting for the precise reproduction of sacred texts, reflecting the value placed on written Buddhist scriptures during this period.
Legacy
As an artifact from an early manuscript of a key Buddhist text, it provides insight into medieval Buddhist practices and manuscript production techniques, contributing to the understanding of religious and intellectual history in ancient India or Southeast Asia.
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 72 (verso), from a Manuscript of the Perfection of Wisdom in Eight Thousand Lines (Ashtasahasrika Prajnaparamita-sutra)
Text, folio 54 (verso), from a Manuscript of the Perfection of Wisdom in Eight Thousand Lines (Ashtasahasrika Prajnaparamita-sutra)
Text, Folio 67 (verso), from a Manuscript of the Perfection of Wisdom in Eight Thousand Lines (Ashtasahasrika Prajnaparamita-sutra)
Text, Folio 60 (verso), from a Manuscript of the Perfection of Wisdom in Eight Thousand Lines (Ashtasahasrika Prajnaparamita-sutra)
Text, Folio 126 (verso), from a Manuscript of the Perfection of Wisdom in Eight Thousand Lines (Ashtasahasrika Prajnaparamita-sutra)
Text, Folio 64 (verso), from a Manuscript of the Perfection of Wisdom in Eight Thousand Lines (Ashtasahasrika Prajnaparamita-sutra)