Prajnaparamita, Painting from a Prajnaparamita Sutra Manuscript
The production of Buddhist illuminated manuscripts in western Tibet during the eleventh century was closely associated with Tholing Monastery and its satellites. This depiction of the goddess Prajnaparamita, the personification of the wisdom sutra, reflects the artistic legacy of medieval Kashmir. Characteristics of the style include the goddess’s elaborate niche, her richly patterned skirt, and physical features such as her almond-shaped eyes, large breasts, and narrow waist. Prajnaparamita’s hands are poised in the “turning of the wheel” gesture, expounding the Buddhist teachings that she embodies.
Artwork Details
- Title: Prajnaparamita, Painting from a Prajnaparamita Sutra Manuscript
- Artist: Unidentified artist
- Date: 11th–12th century
- Culture: Western Tibet
- Medium: Gouache and black ink on paper
- Dimensions: Image: 4 × 4 in. (10.2 × 10.2 cm)
Sheet: 7 3/4 × 5 1/2 in. (19.7 × 14 cm) - Classification: Manuscripts
- Credit Line: Gift of Beata and Michael McCormick, in celebration of the Museum’s 150th Anniversary, 2020
- Object Number: 2020.77
- Curatorial Department: Asian Art
More Artwork
A slider containing 5 items.
Press the down key to skip to the last item.
Press the down key to skip to the last item.
Unidentified artist
Unidentified artist
Unidentified artist
Unidentified artist
Unidentified artist
18th–19th century
Research Resources
The Met provides unparalleled resources for research and welcomes an international community of students and scholars. The Met's Open Access API is where creators and researchers can connect to the The Met collection. Open Access data and public domain images are available for unrestricted commercial and noncommercial use without permission or fee.
To request images under copyright and other restrictions, please use this Image Request form.
Feedback
We continue to research and examine historical and cultural context for objects in The Met collection. If you have comments or questions about this object record, please contact us using the form below. The Museum looks forward to receiving your comments.