Sutra Case

12th–13th century

Object Label

This envelope-shape box once contained the folded manuscript of a Buddhist text, called a sutra. Written forms of Buddhist teachings have always been considered far more important and sacred than artistic visualizations such as sculptures and paintings. For the owner of this deluxe case, who probably wore it hanging from the loop at the top, the sutra inside likely served both as an instructive text and as a powerful amulet.

Caption

Sutra Case, 12th–13th century. Gilt bronze, 4 5/16 × 2 3/4 in. (11.0 × 7.0 cm). Lent by the Carroll Family Collection, L2018.6.6.

Title

Sutra Case

Date

12th–13th century

Dynasty

Goryeo dynasty

Period

Late Goryeo Period

Medium

Gilt bronze

Classification

Carrier

Dimensions

4 5/16 × 2 3/4 in. (11.0 × 7.0 cm)

Credit Line

Lent by the Carroll Family Collection

Accession Number

L2018.6.6

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