Manuscript Covers
Rare artifacts of profound beauty offer connection to ancient culture.
Hundreds of years ago, precious texts and illuminations began sweeping through the Himalayan kingdoms from India, spreading messages of spiritual wisdom and philosophies. Initially bound only by strings thread through two holes in each page, imaginative Himalayan artisans began crafting wooden covers to protect these delicate and sacred manuscripts.
Wooden covers were made to size, in rectangular blocks to accommodate pages usually made of palm tree fronds or birch tree bark. Tibetan books were written mostly on paper brought from China. Throughout the Himalayan region manuscript covers were intricately hand carved, painted and often gilded, their detail appointed with iconography and auspicious symbols. Scenes depict sacred imagery of Himalayan spiritual philosophies and culture, Buddhist or Hindu deities, Bodhisattvas, and mandalas. Occasionally, wooden covers were metal-plated, featuring further detailed engravings.
Early Himalayan manuscript covers gloriously demonstrate the remarkable multi-faceted talent of Himalayan artists, who combined skillful woodworking and painting techniques while at the same time adhering to iconographic requirements. Our collection of centuries-old, rare manuscript covers is a fine example of the rich and authentic Himalayan artistry you will find through Lotus Within.
Explore the Collection
We invite you to browse our collection of extraordinary manuscript covers and share our appreciation of these time-honored, inspirational fine arts of the Himalayas. Each piece is an authentic handmade work curated for its rare beauty and quality workmanship.
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