Sutra Cover
Ming dynasty (1368–1644), c. 1590s
Medium
Silk and gold-leaf-over-lacquered-paper strips, satin weave with patterning wefts; wrapped over cardboard and backed with paper; applied label of silk, plain weave; with inscribed title painted and/or printed with ink
Dimensions
34.8 × 12.2 cm (13 5/8 × 4 7/8 in.)
Classification
textile
Department
Textiles
Museum
Art Institute of Chicago
Accession Number
157320
Rights
Public Domain
Art Historical Context
This exquisite *Sutra Cover* from China's Ming dynasty (1368–1644), dating to around the 1590s, served as a protective wrapper for sacred Buddhist sutras—scriptural texts central to spiritual practice. Crafted by an unknown artist, it reflects the era's reverence for Buddhism, when imperial patronage flourished, blending artistry with devotion. Measuring just 34.8 × 12.2 cm, its compact size made it ideal for portable temple treasures or personal altars. The cover's construction showcases Ming textile mastery: luxurious silk in a satin weave with patterning wefts, overlaid with shimmering gold-leaf-on-lacquered-paper strips. These were meticulously wrapped over cardboard, backed with paper, and adorned with a silk label inscribed in ink—likely the sutra's title. This labor-intensive technique not only ensured durability but also evoked divine radiance, symbolizing the illuminated wisdom of the texts within. Housed in the Art Institute of Chicago's Textiles Department, this artifact highlights the Ming period's fusion of opulence and piety, offering visitors a tangible glimpse into East Asian religious life. Its gilded elegance reminds us how everyday objects became vessels of profound cultural and spiritual significance.
About the Artist
Unknown
The artist designated as "Unknown" in our virtual museum's collection exemplifies a poignant chapter in art history: creators whose identities have faded into obscurity despite the enduring power of their work. With only one known artwork attributed to them in our holdings, this figure represents countless anonymous hands that shaped visual culture across centuries. Museums worldwide, including th...