Mogao Cave 17: Avatamsaka Sutra - Fascicle 37

CHINA, Gansu, Dunhuang; Sui dynasty

This sutra scroll was unearthed from Mogao Cave 17 in Dunhuang. It is noted in the postscript that the work was completed in 597 of the Sui dynasty (581–618), under the patronage of Yuan Jingzi, a lady devotee who prayed for blessings, avoidance of calamities, and also expiation of unwholesome deeds committed by ancestors so they may find rebirth in the Pure Land. The scroll is one of the many sutras removed from Dunhuang by the French explorer Paul Pelliot.
Written in an upright and clear style, the calligraphy consists of several hard edges and angular twists, especially at the “pie” and “na” (left and right-falling) diagonal strokes. Each character is neatly structured and diligently composed, which is likely due to the fact a hard brush was used. A mindset of reverence and austerity is nevertheless apparent in this scrupulous effort, and is uniquely characterized by a balanced use of undulating strokes.