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Fragment of a Book Cover for a Buddhist Sutra
Fragment of a Book Cover for a Buddhist Sutra
Fragment of a Book Cover for a Buddhist Sutra

Fragment of a Book Cover for a Buddhist Sutra

Place of ManufactureAsia
MediumMaterial: wood
DimensionsOverall: 17.5 x 35.7 cm
ClassificationsDECORATIVE ART
Credit LineMemorial Fund Purchase
Object number1993.052.006
DescriptionThis elaborately carved book cover shows the great esteem held by the Tibetans for their sacred scriptures. Although badly damaged this portion of the book cover shows a decorative niche with a Buddha. The niche is called "arch of glory".

At the top is Garuda, a horned part-bird, part-human vehicle of the Hindu god, Vishnu. It became a popular emblem in Tibet among both the Bon and Buddhist religions as a sky god. He is looked upon as a bringer of rain and a protector against poisoned water and snake bites.

Garuda is the arch-enemy of snakes (nagas) and is often shown holding a snake in its beak. Beside this niche are a number of tiny carved Buddhas
Status
Not on view
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