This is an extraordinary example of such precious sutra texts replete with beautifully wrought manuscript covers. The front cover is inlayed with turquoise and coral and two magnificent dragons that embrace a snow lion. The silver inlaid filigree on the covers is highly detailed with an intricate design that engages both the touch and the eye. The back cover has the five Dhyani Buddhas. The Five Dhyani Buddhas or Great Buddhas of Wisdom are central features of Tibetan Buddhist practice and iconography: Vairocana is known as the Supreme Buddha, the Radiant One; Akshobhya is the Immovable or Unshakable Buddha. Ratnasambhava is the Jewel Born One. Amithaba is the Buddha of Infinite Light. Amogasiddhi is the "Almighty Conqueror or Lord of Karma".
These hand printed sutras are beautifully rendered. The text is accompanied by beautifully illustrations depicting the deity. The first sutra, Padmasambhava is a mantric evocation to the founder of Tibetan Buddhism. The next two are mantric evocations of most popular of the 21 Taras: Green Tara and White Tara. Green Tara evokes abundance, compassion and the earth element. White Tara is the goddess of luminosity, longevity and compassion. Manjurshri, the next sutra, presented in this collection, is the bodhisattva of clarity and realized wisdom. Wielding a flaming sword, he cuts through ignorance and deception.
In a search of Sutra manuscript covers that have been offered in recent Christie's catalogues we have not found anything that compares in the sumptuous intricacy, quality and artistry of design presented here. This is an extraordinary find and is in excellent condition. (SD)