Sutra Box

KOREA; Goryeo dynasty

This 12th century sutra box contains the Avatamsaka Sutra. It was listed as an Important Cultural Property.
The rectangular wooden box measures 37.8 cm long, 19.2 cm wide, and 26 cm high. It is lacquered in black and inlaid with mother-of-pearl. There is a lock at the front and handles at the sides.
In the center of the lid, there are beads that form a rectangular frame around the seven Chinese characters relating to the Avatamsaka Sutra. The main design is that of chrysanthemums and scroll leaf patterns. The distinguishing features of the box are the slight convergence of the sides and the relatively small lid.