The Indian Buddhist Iconography, Mainly Based on the Sadhanamala and Other Cognate Tantric Texts of Rituals c9.13

c9.13

There is another class of manuscripts which bears miniatures and paintings of Buddhist gods and goddesses. The different recensions of the Prajñāpāramitā and Pañcarakṣā bear miniature paintings on them. Illuminated manuscripts of the Kāraṇḍavyūha and Bodhicaryāvatāra are also not unknown. The Pañcarakṣā manuscripts are to be found almost in every Buddhist house in Nepal, they bear different sets of miniatures, and are calculated to serve many household purposes. Holy books are illuminated with miniatures in order that they may be treated with respect by others, and in order that their sanctity may be increased and preserved.