Antique 19th Century Burmese Parabaik Painting

19th c. Burmese Painted Parabaik Page

Burmese fanfold books, also known as Parabaik, were written and illustrated on many subjects including Buddhist studies, folk tales, medicine, astrology and more. Modern printing was introduced into Burma and Thailand in the 19th century and the demise of this beautiful art form quickly occurred. This is a page from a Parabaik still showing the fold between the painting and the written part. The painted illuminations are beautifully executed on saa paper, made from the bark of the mulberry tree, and show the traditional dress of ancient Burma. There is some paint loss in areas and some water discoloration to the pages, typical of ancient books. The page would look wonderful framed!

Measurements: 15 3/4" x 11 1/4" (40 cm x 28.6 cm)

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