These two silver covers were crafted to protect a palm-leaf manuscript, which was placed inside the binding and tied with a string threaded through the two holes. The top cover consists of a solar motif, with a human face to the left and a rabbit and moon to the right, representing longevity. The empty medallion in the center would have been engraved with text. The silver panel at the bottom features two geese with intertwined necks, symbolizing prosperity. Flanking them, the Narilata motif portrays a vine, serving as a metaphor for a woman. Both objects are adorned with a lotus-petal border. Together, this iconography illustrates continuity and abundance, likely suggesting royal patronage.
Details
- Title: Covers of a Manuscript
- Date: c. 1800
- Medium: Silver (two pieces)
- Dimensions: 2-1/2 x 10-1/16 in. (6.4 x 25.6 cm) each
- Credit Line: Norton Simon Museum, Gift of Michael Phillips and Juliana Maio
- Accession Number: P.1999.11.12a,b
- Copyright: © Norton Simon Museum
Object Information
The Universe: Creation, Constellations and the Cosmos
- Norton Simon Museum, 2001-02-04 to 2001-06-04
- Pal, Pratapaditya, Asian Art at the Norton Simon Museum, Volume 3: Art from Sri Lanka & Southeast Asia, 2004, no. 61 pp. 47, 70-71, 114
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