續古今譯經圖紀 1.2

1.2

As for the Illustrated Record of Scripture Translations, its origin lies in the hall of the Translation Hall at Dacien Monastery. This hall depicted the monastic and lay transmitters and translators of past and present, beginning with Kāśyapa Mātaṅga and ending with the Tripiṭaka Master of the Great Tang. Master [Yan]mai thereupon composed inscriptions for them on the walls. From that time onward, translations and transmissions continued unabated. Various decorated portraits existed, but there was no such written record. Although I, Sheng, am not clever, I have ventured to offer praises and descriptions. Though fine silk thread and coarse hemp are distinct, I hope to maintain the continuity without severance. May readers find no cause for reproach.