Artwork
Text, Folio 86 (recto), from a Manuscript of the Perfection of Wisdom in Eight Thousand Lines (Ashtasahasrika Prajnaparamita-sutra)
Text, Folio 86 (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 86 (recto), is part of a manuscript of the Ashtasahasrika Prajnaparamita-sutra, a Buddhist scripture.
About this work
Overview
This wooden block, Folio 86 (recto), is part of a manuscript of the Ashtasahasrika Prajnaparamita-sutra, a Buddhist scripture. It features a grid of three rows of tiny, square holes, with two small circular marks near the center, and has a smooth, polished surface.
Subject & Meaning
The block's design reflects its purpose in reproducing religious texts, specifically the Perfection of Wisdom in Eight Thousand Lines, a key Buddhist text. The precision of the grid indicates its use for efficiently copying lengthy, sacred writings.
Technique & Style
The block showcases meticulous craftsmanship, with evenly spaced, square holes arranged in a neat grid, demonstrating the technological sophistication of early printing techniques.
History & Provenance
Originally used for stamping text onto paper or fabric, this block is now part of The Cleveland Museum of Art's collection, highlighting the transition from a functional religious tool to a preserved cultural artifact.
Context
Created in a period before widespread printing, this block represents an intermediate step in text reproduction, bridging handwritten copying and later printing innovations, specifically for Buddhist scriptures.
Legacy
As an early example of printing technology, this block contributes to the understanding of the evolution of text reproduction methods, particularly in the dissemination of Buddhist teachings.
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 95 (recto), from a Manuscript of the Perfection of Wisdom in Eight Thousand Lines (Ashtasahasrika Prajnaparamita-sutra)
Text, folio 89 (recto), from a Manuscript of the Perfection of Wisdom in Eight Thousand Lines (Ashtasahasrika Prajnaparamita-sutra)
Text, Folio 88 (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 128 (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 103 (recto), from a Manuscript of the Perfection of Wisdom in Eight Thousand Lines (Ashtasahasrika Prajnaparamita-sutra)