Lot 358: INDIAN SCHOOL, 18TH/19TH CENTURY, 'AN ILLUMINATED JAIN MANUSCRIPT FOLIO FROM A KALPASUTRA'.
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This double-sided manuscript folio is identified through web consensus as a leaf from a Jain Kalpasutra, a sacred text detailing the lives of the Tirthankaras. The recto side features a hand-painted central miniature depicting a seated dark-skinned figure in a cross-legged meditative posture, set within a decorative frame and flanked by stylised trees. A red ink inscription to the left of the image reads Devaki in Devanagari script, likely referring to the mother of Krishna in the context of the life of the 22nd Tirthankara, Neminatha. The painting is executed in a provincial folk style characteristic of regional traditions in Rajasthan or Gujarat, using a palette of red, blue, and brown pigments. Columns of handwritten Devanagari script in black ink flank the central image. The verso side is entirely covered with horizontal rows of calligraphic Devanagari script.
Approximately 21.5 x 10.4cm
Condition report:
The paper folio exhibits significant signs of age and handling. The edges are irregular and frayed, with several small losses and tears along the margins. There is noticeable creasing, scattered staining, and general discolouration across the surface of both sides. The pigments and ink remain largely clear and legible. The item is unframed.
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