Antique Burmese Manuscript - Kammavaca book
Nr. 3901-3

Burmese Kammavaca manuscript leaves, gilded with black script, full layout overview on dark background

Detail of gilded Kammavaca manuscript leaves with black script and an engraved framed panel

Engraved figure panel on a gilded Kammavaca leaf, angled view among text panels

Close-up of black script on a gilded Kammavaca leaf, with shallow depth of field

Macro detail of raised black characters on gilded surface with fine border ornament

Gilded text lines with black script and scrolling band ornament, close-up

Detail of black calligraphy on gold ground with red line ornaments between the lines

Engraved figure frame beside black text lines on a gilded Kammavaca leaf

Gilded wooden cover board with red engraved decoration, angled top view

Wide detail of red engraved figures on the gilded cover board, with a text leaf below

Full overview of Kammavaca leaves with black script, with red wooden cover boards above and below

Detail overview of several gilded leaves with black script, with a red cover board visible

Engraved figure panel on a gilded leaf beside black script, with red cover board above

Detail of a gilded leaf with engraved figure and black script; red cover board visible at top

Angled view across several text leaves with black script on gold ground and border ornament

Close-up of an engraved panel on a gilded leaf, with blurred script in the background

Close-up of black script lines on gilded surface with shallow depth of field

Angled detail of several gilded leaves with black script, fading into soft focus

Texture detail of black calligraphy on gold ground, with leaves running diagonally

Closed Burmese Kammavaca manuscript book, angled view on dark background

Side view of the closed Kammavaca book showing stacked leaf edges and gilded rim

Close-up of the gilded cover edge and stacked leaf edges of the Kammavaca book

Detail of a corner of the gilded wooden cover board with red line engraving and figure panel

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Antique Burmese Manuscript - Kammavaca book
Nr. 3901-3

€ 1.100

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Details:

Material: Lacquered palm leaves
5,5 cm high
56 cm wide and 13,5 cm deep
Gilded with 24 krt. gold
19th century
A complete set : 16 pages + 2 wooden covers
The manuscript is written in Pali language, an old Buddhist language
It is in exceptional good condition !
Weight: 2,6 kgs
Originating from Burma (Myanmar)

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Description

This Antique Burmese Manuscript, known as a Kammavaca book, represents a vital piece of Buddhist heritage from Burma (Myanmar). Crafted in the 19th century, it showcases 16 intricately inscribed pages made from lacquered palm leaves, beautifully gilded with 24-karat gold. Written in Pali—an ancient language significant in Buddhist scriptures—the manuscript serves as a ceremonial text detailing monastic codes and rituals.

The Kammavaca plays a crucial role in the ordination of monks, conveying essential teachings and practices within the monastic community. Each page is adorned with script embodying centuries of tradition and spiritual significance, effectively connecting readers with early Buddhist thought and ethics.

Standing at 5.5 cm in height and measuring 56 cm wide by 13.5 cm deep when opened, this remarkable artifact is not only visually stunning but also reflects the deep-rooted craftsmanship of Burmese artisans. Its excellent condition indicates the care it has received over the years, preserving its rich cultural narrative.

Burma’s history with Buddhism dates back to the 3rd century BCE, when it began to flourish, profoundly influencing art, literature, and daily life. This manuscript captures a fragment of that enduring legacy, representing both the artistic skill and religious dedication of its time.

Payment and shipping

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We ship this item worldwide. After your order has been placed, we will carefully pack the piece and prepare it for shipment, usually within 24 hours after payment has been received.

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Returns are possible within 30 days after shipment. After we have received and inspected the returned item, the purchase amount will be refunded, excluding shipping costs.

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