Artwork

Text, Folio 96 (recto), from a Manuscript of the Perfection of Wisdom in Eight Thousand Lines (Ashtasahasrika Prajnaparamita-sutra)

Text, Folio 96 (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.

About this work

Overview

This wooden block, known as Text, Folio 96 (recto), originates from a manuscript of the Ashtasahasrika Prajnaparamita-sutra, a Buddhist scripture. It features three rows of evenly spaced, deep holes arranged to form lines of text, akin to a primitive Braille system. The block's worn, golden-brown wood and two metal rings on the sides indicate its functional and portable nature.

Subject & Meaning

The subject of this block is a portion of the Perfection of Wisdom in Eight Thousand Lines, a key Mahayana Buddhist text. The engraved holes, when inked and stamped, would reproduce a segment of this sacred scripture, facilitating the dissemination of Buddhist teachings through printed copies.

Technique & Style

The block showcases a unique, early printing technique where deep holes were carved to allow ink passage, creating reverse text impressions on paper or fabric. The simplicity and uniformity of the hole spacing reflect a practical, functional design prioritizing text reproduction over aesthetic embellishment.

History & Provenance

While specific historical ownership details of this block are not provided, its design and material suggest it belongs to a tradition of early Buddhist printing, likely from a region with a significant Mahayana influence, though the exact origin and date are not specified here.

Context

This block would have been used in a religious or scribal context to mass-produce portions of the Prajnaparamita-sutra for distribution among Buddhist communities. Its portability, indicated by the metal rings, suggests it may have been used by traveling monks or in various scriptoria.

Legacy

As part of the early printing tradition, this block represents a precursor to more advanced printing technologies. It highlights the importance of the Prajnaparamita scriptures in Buddhist practice and the innovative methods developed for their widespread dissemination.