Artwork

Text, Folio 84 (recto), from a Manuscript of the Perfection of Wisdom in Eight Thousand Lines (Ashtasahasrika Prajnaparamita-sutra)

Text, Folio 84 (recto), from a Manuscript of the Perfection of Wisdom in Eight Thousand Lines (Ashtasahasrika Prajnaparamita-sutra) is an unspecified painting by the Byzantine icon painting artist Unknown. It dates from 14 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art. This wooden block is a printing matrix for a Buddhist text, specifically the Ashtasahasrika Prajnaparamita-sutra.

About this work

Overview

This wooden block is a printing matrix for a Buddhist text, specifically the Ashtasahasrika Prajnaparamita-sutra. It is divided into three sections, filled with raised characters in a Nepalese script.

Technique & Style

The block features intricate carvings of tiny characters, creating a pattern of dots and lines. The raised text was likely used to print pages by hand, applying ink to the block and transferring the image to paper or fabric.

History & Provenance

The block shows signs of wear and has two small holes near its ends, suggesting it may have been displayed or hung at some point. It is now part of The Cleveland Museum of Art's collection.