Twenty Tirthankaras: Folio from a Kalpasutra Manuscript

15th century

Not on view

The Kalpasutra singles out for special mention four tirthankharas: the first, original jina, Rsabhanatha, and the last three, Neminatha, Parshvanatha, and Mahavira. They are given extensive biographies, especially Mahavira. The twenty in between are grouped together, as depicted serially here. Their biographical information is not provided, but the cosmic lapse of time between each of their appearances on earth is. They are shown seated in meditation, bejeweled, and framed by a pair of pendant red lotus buds, perhaps denoting their perfected being and siddha status.

Artwork Details

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Title: Twenty Tirthankaras: Folio from a Kalpasutra Manuscript
Date: 15th century
Culture: India (Gujarat)
Medium: Ink, opaque watercolor, and gold on paper
Dimensions: Overall: 4 3/8 x 10 5/8 in. (11.1 x 27 cm)
Classification: Paintings
Credit Line: Rogers Fund, 1955
Object Number: 55.121.38.22
Curatorial Department: Asian Art

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