Sutra Box

CHINA; Qing dynasty

This gold sutra box was created during the rule of Emperor Qianlong (reigned 1736–1795) of the Qing dynasty. It was meant to store the Liturgy for the Great Compassion Dharani Sutra.
The rectangular box measures 21 cm long, 8.7 cm wide, and 6.5 cm high. The sides and lid are embedded with various gemstones, including turquoise, rubies, red coral, sapphires, and pearls. The inside of the lid has an illustration of the Buddha teaching the Dharma, flanked by two disciples. The Buddha sits on a lotus throne with his hands in the vitarka (teaching) mudra. He has a blue nimbus and a golden mandorla, and wears a robe with a yellow grid against a red background. The disciples wear plain red robes and stand on a square red mat. One disciple has his palms joined, while the other is holding a bell in one hand. The disciples have a light green nimbus and a light red mandorla.