Sutra of Innumerable Meanings and the Samantabhadra Meditation Sutra

JAPAN; Heian period

This manuscript, comprised of two parts, each with one sutra, was likely produced as part of the Threefold Lotus Sutra, which is a tripartite compilation consisting of the Sutra of Innumerable Meanings, the Samantabhadra Meditation Sutra, and the Lotus Sutra. The paper selection is particularly noteworthy as different grades were used on alternate sheets of the scroll. Many decorative details of a Heian period (794–1185) manuscript can be seen in this artifact, such as vertical guide lines ruled in gold ink. It was listed as a National Treasure in 1950.
The calligraphy is light and gentle, and the strokes are thorough in execution, with a slight feeling of reservation. Each character is openly composed, and each beginning stroke is lightly landed. There is a refined sense of sophistication to the work, which suggests an inclination towards the Japanese Wayo style, which was an independently developed form that resulted from study and deliberation on Chinese styles. The Japanese Wayo style is one of the distinct elements of this manuscript.