Antique-shop.com

Antiques! => Antique Questions Forum => Topic started by: Ichieh on April 12, 2015, 02:49:25 AM

Title: Paper hidden inside a 16th century tibet Arhat wood statue
Post by: Ichieh on April 12, 2015, 02:49:25 AM

I recently acquired this 16th century tibet statue, and as i was handling it, i removed a wood block.  I found this paper wrapped with cotton/cloth material hid inside this small opening.   As i tried to remove it, i accidentaly tore a small piece out,  and saw some type of writing on the paper.    Any idea what it might be?   How should i proceed from here to find out what the writing is on the paper?

Title: Re: Paper hidden inside a 16th century tibet Arhat wood statue
Post by: Ichieh on April 12, 2015, 02:51:33 AM

It is very delicate, for obvious reason i am afraid to open the scroll myself.   Would love suggestions how to handle this interesting antique scroll/paper

Title: Re: Paper hidden inside a 16th century tibet Arhat wood statue
Post by: KC on April 12, 2015, 11:17:16 AM

If this is in fact that old, I would take it to a local museum and ask them how to proceed.

Title: Re: Paper hidden inside a 16th century tibet Arhat wood statue
Post by: Ichieh on April 12, 2015, 12:14:51 PM

I did some research, and found out that the tibet monks will roll mantra or other blessed items and stuff them in the statue, as part of the consecration of buddha statues.   I wonder if the item i found was mantra on paper from 16th century

Title: Re: Paper hidden inside a 16th century tibet Arhat wood statue
Post by: mart on April 12, 2015, 06:26:25 PM

I agree with KC !!  A mantra/prayer is likely what it is but a museum would know how to handle it !!

Title: Re: Paper hidden inside a 16th century tibet Arhat wood statue
Post by: Ichieh on April 12, 2015, 07:21:25 PM

I doubt museum would provide this kind of service, at least not the one near where i live.    Are there labs that can do that?