TOP: The Ratnakudapariprccha(Ratnakuda’s Questions), in Chinese translation. This work is the forty-seventh scripture in the collection
known as the Maharatnakuta-sutraor Great Heap of Gems Sutra, a collection of early Mahayana sutras. Chinese, Western Jin dynasty
(265–316 C.E.), ink on paper scroll, with wooden roller. The British Library. Reproduced by permission.BOTTOM: Illuminated manuscript of the Astasahasrikaprajñaparamita-sutra(Perfection of Wisdom in 8,000 Lines), in Sanskrit, from the
Vikramas ́la Monastery in Bihar. The figures depicted are the bodhisattvas Avalokites ́vara (top), seated on a lion’s back, and Maitreya.
Indian, ca. 1145 C.E., ink and gouache on palm leaves with wooden covers. The British Library. Reproduced by permission.3rd REVISED
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