Kalaka and Sahi Chief, a folio from the Manuscript of the Kalpasutra and Kalakacharya Katha
Kalpasutra is the book of Paryushana rituals (the most important annual holy event for Jains), composed by Bhadrabahu, c. 3rd century AD. Usually the Kalpasutra contains three parts.
1. Jinacharita, the lives of the 24 Tirthankaras (24 founders of the Jaina religion).
2. Sthaviravali, the succession lists of the Jina pontiffs.
3. Sadhu-Samachari, rules of conduct during the Paryushana festival.
An addendum to this book is known as Kalakacharya Katha, which deals with stories from the life of Kalaka. Both these books are illustrated profusely in the style of Gujarat paintings – having pointed noses, double chins and a second eye projecting in space against a red background. These are the prominent characteristic features of Jain painting.
Period:
1430 - 40 AD
Measurement:
10.1 cm (H) x 29.3 cm (W)
Accession Number:
LDII.SAHA.00103. F 7
Category:
Manuscripts and Book Covers
Provenance or region:
Gujarat
Style:
Painting on paper