Burma (Myanmar), c. 1950–1970
In the Buddhist traditions of Burma, sacred knowledge was often carried in beautifully crafted folding manuscripts designed to unfold slowly, inviting contemplation one page at a time.
Bound between two hand carved hardwood covers, each centered by a richly carved elephant, this Burmese accordion manuscript opens to reveal pages of handwritten Burmese script alongside finely executed ink illustrations of elephants, lions, mythical guardian creatures, and other auspicious animals, each enclosed within lotus inspired borders.
While the manuscript has not yet been translated, its combination of text and symbolic imagery reflects the enduring tradition of Burmese devotional manuscripts, where scripture, blessing, and artistic expression exist together. Every page was intended not simply to be read, but to be encountered.
The elephant occupies a place of special reverence throughout Southeast Asian Buddhist culture, representing wisdom, strength, memory, and noble character. The mythical guardians illustrated throughout the manuscript speak to themes of protection, spiritual courage, and the unseen world that accompanies daily life.
Handmade from carved wood, folded paper, ink, and cord, this manuscript embodies a centuries old tradition in which books were created as sacred companions rather than ordinary possessions.
Today it stands as both a remarkable work of folk artistry and a quiet reminder that knowledge has long been carried with reverence, folded carefully between hands carved with equal devotion.
Details
Origin: Burma (Myanmar)
Date: Circa 1950–1970
Materials: Carved hardwood covers, handmade folded paper, hand drawn ink illustrations and Burmese script, hand stitched cord binding
Construction: Traditional accordion folding manuscript (parabaik tradition)
Condition: Very good vintage condition with gentle age related wear, complete with original carved covers and folding pages.
“Some books preserve stories. Others preserve worlds.”
Important Note
All sales are final, each piece is one-of-a-kind
Please note the shipping, pick-up, and in-Paris delivery options at check-out
Burma (Myanmar), c. 1950–1970
In the Buddhist traditions of Burma, sacred knowledge was often carried in beautifully crafted folding manuscripts designed to unfold slowly, inviting contemplation one page at a time.
Bound between two hand carved hardwood covers, each centered by a richly carved elephant, this Burmese accordion manuscript opens to reveal pages of handwritten Burmese script alongside finely executed ink illustrations of elephants, lions, mythical guardian creatures, and other auspicious animals, each enclosed within lotus inspired borders.
While the manuscript has not yet been translated, its combination of text and symbolic imagery reflects the enduring tradition of Burmese devotional manuscripts, where scripture, blessing, and artistic expression exist together. Every page was intended not simply to be read, but to be encountered.
The elephant occupies a place of special reverence throughout Southeast Asian Buddhist culture, representing wisdom, strength, memory, and noble character. The mythical guardians illustrated throughout the manuscript speak to themes of protection, spiritual courage, and the unseen world that accompanies daily life.
Handmade from carved wood, folded paper, ink, and cord, this manuscript embodies a centuries old tradition in which books were created as sacred companions rather than ordinary possessions.
Today it stands as both a remarkable work of folk artistry and a quiet reminder that knowledge has long been carried with reverence, folded carefully between hands carved with equal devotion.
Details
Origin: Burma (Myanmar)
Date: Circa 1950–1970
Materials: Carved hardwood covers, handmade folded paper, hand drawn ink illustrations and Burmese script, hand stitched cord binding
Construction: Traditional accordion folding manuscript (parabaik tradition)
Condition: Very good vintage condition with gentle age related wear, complete with original carved covers and folding pages.
“Some books preserve stories. Others preserve worlds.”
Important Note
All sales are final, each piece is one-of-a-kind
Please note the shipping, pick-up, and in-Paris delivery options at check-out
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