Book Pointer

Art Historical Context

This exquisite 19th-century ivory *Book Pointer* from Thailand now in the Metropolitan Museum of Art's Asian Art collection exemplifies the refined craftsmanship of Southeast Asian religious artifacts. Measuring 10 7/16 x 1 1/8 inches, this sculpture was designed for practical use in Buddhist temples. Monks employed it to indicate passages in fragile palm-leaf manuscripts during readings, preventing direct contact that could damage the sacred texts—a testament to the culture's deep reverence for scripture. Carved from ivory, a prized medium in Thai art for its creamy luster and carvability, the pointer highlights the anonymous artisan's skill in sculpting a functional yet elegant object. Ivory's durability and subtle sheen made it ideal for items meant to endure ritual handling, blending utility with spiritual symbolism. In Thai Buddhist tradition, such pointers were essential tools in monastic life, underscoring the society's emphasis on preserving dharma teachings. Gifted to the Met in 1987 by Peter and Jean Marks, this piece offers visitors a tangible link to Thailand's 19th-century devotional world, where art served both the divine and the daily.