15. Fragment of Astasâhasrikâ. Early 1100s

The work is a Prajnaparamita text, that is to say a Buddhist text on wisdom in an exquisite Ranjana-writing. The work is very rare and contains ten miniature paintings with Bhuddas and scenes from Buddha's life. The text consists of discussions on knowledge and wisdom between Buddha and his disciples.

It is particularly apparent in this work that the artistic rendering has been all important. The text of the work was well known, but the very fine workmanship would have been intended to provide good karma for the person who ordered the work.

The work consists of 37 palm leaves and was purchased by the archaeologist and ethnographer Werner Jacobsen in Kathmandu in 1958.