Description
Antique Burmese Buddhist Scripture on Palm Leaf.
Acquired in Myanmar in 1996.
Professionally framed in Colorado on 2006.
More about the Burmese Buddhist Manuscript, Hand Written Prayer Book ...
Vintage Burmese Buddhist palm leaf manuscripts, or peisa, are 18th-19th century sacred texts typically handwritten in Pali or Burmese script on dried, smoked Palmyra palm leaves. These fragile, palm-sized documents often feature gilded, lacquered, or red-painted wooden covers, serving as religious or monastic records. They are highly collectible as authentic Southeast Asian artifacts, frequently displaying intricate "tamarind seed" script.
Leaves are cut from fan-shaped palms, then soaked, dried, or baked for durability.
Scripture: Text is often scratched into the leaf using a stylus and then wiped with ink, soot, or resin to enhance visibility.
Most often contain KammavÄcÄ (ritual ordination texts) or other Buddhist scriptures (Triptaka).
Structure: Composed of numerous leaves sandwiched between two protective, often decorative, wooden boards.
Binding: Held together by fabric cords passing through holes in the leaves, acting as a binding that allows them to be opened like a fan.
Historical Significance
These manuscripts represent a long tradition of documenting Buddhist teachings dating back to at least 5 CE in India and spreading throughout Southeast Asia. The use of palm leaves was common, but the Burmese tradition is noted for the specific, durable preparation of the leaves and the "tamarind seed" script.
Condition:
Alterations: Original Condition Unaltered
Imperfections: Some Imperfections
Condition Notes: Excellent used condition. Well preserved in frame. Frame in great condition.
Dimensions:
Height: 10.65 in.
Width: 26.75 in.
Depth: 1.75 in.
Category: Home Accents
Origin: Myanmar
Materials: Plexiglass, Reed, Veneer
Shipping:Domestic: Flat-rate of $140.00 to anywhere within the contiguous U.S. International: No International Shipping for this auction. Combined shipping: Please ask about combined shipping for multiple lots before bidding. Location: This item ships from Denver, CO
Your purchase is protected:
In the rare event that the item did not conform to the lot description in the sale, Chairish Auctions specialists are here to help. Buyers may return the item for a full refund provided you notify Chairish Auctions within 5 days of receiving the item.
Acquired in Myanmar in 1996.
Professionally framed in Colorado on 2006.
More about the Burmese Buddhist Manuscript, Hand Written Prayer Book ...
Vintage Burmese Buddhist palm leaf manuscripts, or peisa, are 18th-19th century sacred texts typically handwritten in Pali or Burmese script on dried, smoked Palmyra palm leaves. These fragile, palm-sized documents often feature gilded, lacquered, or red-painted wooden covers, serving as religious or monastic records. They are highly collectible as authentic Southeast Asian artifacts, frequently displaying intricate "tamarind seed" script.
Leaves are cut from fan-shaped palms, then soaked, dried, or baked for durability.
Scripture: Text is often scratched into the leaf using a stylus and then wiped with ink, soot, or resin to enhance visibility.
Most often contain KammavÄcÄ (ritual ordination texts) or other Buddhist scriptures (Triptaka).
Structure: Composed of numerous leaves sandwiched between two protective, often decorative, wooden boards.
Binding: Held together by fabric cords passing through holes in the leaves, acting as a binding that allows them to be opened like a fan.
Historical Significance
These manuscripts represent a long tradition of documenting Buddhist teachings dating back to at least 5 CE in India and spreading throughout Southeast Asia. The use of palm leaves was common, but the Burmese tradition is noted for the specific, durable preparation of the leaves and the "tamarind seed" script.
Condition:
Alterations: Original Condition Unaltered
Imperfections: Some Imperfections
Condition Notes: Excellent used condition. Well preserved in frame. Frame in great condition.
Dimensions:
Height: 10.65 in.
Width: 26.75 in.
Depth: 1.75 in.
Category: Home Accents
Origin: Myanmar
Materials: Plexiglass, Reed, Veneer
Shipping:
Your purchase is protected:
In the rare event that the item did not conform to the lot description in the sale, Chairish Auctions specialists are here to help. Buyers may return the item for a full refund provided you notify Chairish Auctions within 5 days of receiving the item.
Condition
Original Condition Unaltered; Some Imperfections; Excellent used condition. Well preserved in frame. Frame in great condition.
Buyer's Premium
20%
Vintage Burmese Buddhist Scripture on Palm Leaf, Framed
Estimate $830-$2,480
Starting Price
$460
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Well Collected: Vintage, Art & Interiors I
May 22, 2026 6:00 PM EDTNew York, NY, United States
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