Section of Lotus Sutra

Date11th century

Label TextThis section of the Lotus Sutra was scribed in both gold and silver on indigo-dyed paper. It follows the standard format—17 characters in each column—but the alternation of gold and silver columns makes this work special and the columns’ tonal contrast creates an scintillating visual effect. The section is dated to the 11th century, a period when Japanese aristocrats sponsored the copying of the Lotus Sutra to show their devotion to Pure Land Buddhism.

Object number2020.23.3

ProvenanceKobayashi Kokei (1883-1957); [Kogire-kai Auction House, Kyoto, Japan, by Aug. 2011, sale no. 62, lot no. 001, reproduced pp. 200-201]; purchased at auction by Cheney Cowles, Seattle, Washington, 2011; to Seattle Art Museum, Seattle, Washington, 2020

Photo CreditPhoto: Jueqian Fang

Exhibition HistorySeattle, Washington, Seattle Asian Art Museum, Boundless: Stories of Asian Art, Feb. 8, 2020 - ongoing [on view July 16 - Dec. 5, 2021].

Credit LineGift of Mary and Cheney Cowles

Dimensionsimage: 10 x 20 in. (25.4 x 50.8 cm) overall: 40 x 28 1/2 in. (101.6 x 72.4 cm)

MediumGold and silver on indigo paper