Fragment of a manuscript of the Sutra of Accumulated Treasures (Dabaoji jing)

Fragment of a manuscript of the Sutra of Accumulated Treasures (Dabaoji jing)

Unidentified artist

An item at Metropolitan Museum of Art

This fragmentary scripture encapsulates the grace of Tang-dynasty “sutra script,” the formal hand used for copying scriptures. Regular spacing within characters and columns imparts a stately quality; fluidity of line and the occasional looping flourishes inject sumptuous elegance.

Asian Art

An exhibit at Metropolitan Museum of Art

Fragment of a manuscript of the Sutra of Accumulated Treasures (Dabaoji jing)Fragment of a manuscript of the Sutra of Accumulated Treasures (Dabaoji jing)Fragment of a manuscript of the Sutra of Accumulated Treasures (Dabaoji jing)Fragment of a manuscript of the Sutra of Accumulated Treasures (Dabaoji jing)Fragment of a manuscript of the Sutra of Accumulated Treasures (Dabaoji jing)

The Met's collection of Asian art—more than 35,000 objects, ranging in date from the third millennium B.C. to the twenty-first century—is one of the largest and most comprehensive in the world. Each of the many civilizations of Asia is represented by outstanding works, providing an unrivaled experience of the artistic traditions of nearly half the world.