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Sutra Box
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Sutra Box
CHINA, Hangzhou; Yuan dynasty (1271–1368), dated 1315; Wood and gold; H: 50 cm; Todaiji Temple, Nara, Japan
This lacquered wooden sutra box was created in Hangzhou to store 600 scrolls of the Mahaprajnaparamita Sutra during the Yuan dynasty. It is listed as an Important Cultural Property and kept at Todaiji Temple.
Inlaid with and surrounded by a border of gold, the sides and lid of this box are decorated with phoenixes flying through auspicious clouds. Diagonal cloud patterns are used to fill in the remainder of the sides and the sides of the lid. The edges of the lid and feet are lined with small metal plates held in place with round-headed nails. At the bottom of the box, there is a leaf-shaped plate with a square keyhole. |
