Dongda Temple Pagodas: Sutra on the Names of the Buddhas - Fascicle 25

CHINA, Zhejiang, Wenzhou; Tang dynasty to Five Dynasties

Unearthed in 1956 from both the East and West Pagodas of Dongda Temple in Wenzhou, Zhejiang, this calligraphic work contains the Sutra on the Names of the Buddhas, followed by a repentance text. The sutra is composed with numerous Buddhas’ names, with the first character of every name written in bold. Above each name lies an imprint of a Buddha’s image, which contributes to its intriguing layout.
Repetition of characters is rife, particularly due to the numerous names of the Buddhas, and because the sutra title was repeatedly written as a page header. Nevertheless, the character style remained highly consistent, and the result is a strong uniformity throughout the work. Careful observation reveals that the calligrapher was nonconforming in his approach, as can be seen from the sloped character form and spacious configuration. While the style appears habitual, there is no rashness in the brushwork, and the character shape remains intact despite its rudimentary outlook. These signs of an austere attitude reflect a keen devotion and faith towards Buddhism.