Agnieszka Helman-Ważny

Tibetan Bound Books from the Drangsong Collection in Upper Mustang, Nepal

Introduction

Tibetan bound books from the drangsong collection in upper mustang, nepal. Explore rare Tibetan bound books from the Drangsong Bon collection in Upper Mustang, Nepal. This study details their unique binding, materials, function, and social history.

Abstract

This article discusses a little-known Tibetan bound-book format, using examples from a unique collection of manuscripts, named Drangsong, belonging to the Bon religion of Tibet. Despite the fact that Tibetan sewn books are rare compared to other formats, they are common in Mustang. This study of sixteen sewn Drangsong manuscripts explores the technical details of their binding, the interdependence of the format and function of these manuscripts, as well as their manufacturing materials in the context of the provenance of these books and the social history of the region. A comparison will then be made between the books’ individual vs. collective features.

Review

This article, "Tibetan Bound Books from the Drangsong Collection in Upper Mustang, Nepal," proposes to illuminate a fascinating and under-researched area within Tibetan codicology. The study focuses on a specific, little-known format of Tibetan bound books, drawing from the unique Drangsong collection associated with the Bon religion in Upper Mustang. The abstract immediately signals a significant contribution by highlighting that while sewn Tibetan books are generally rare, they are paradoxically common in this particular region, thus presenting an invaluable opportunity to shed light on a distinct textual tradition and its regional specificities. The methodology outlined suggests a comprehensive approach to understanding these sixteen Drangsong manuscripts. The authors intend to delve into the intricate technical details of their binding, a crucial aspect for codicological studies. Furthermore, the exploration of the interdependence between the format and function of these manuscripts, alongside an analysis of their manufacturing materials, promises a holistic understanding. This technical examination is thoughtfully contextualized within the provenance of the books and the broader social history of Upper Mustang, grounding the material analysis in its cultural and historical milieu. The proposed comparison of individual versus collective features further indicates a nuanced investigation into the characteristics of this particular collection. Overall, this study appears poised to make a valuable contribution to multiple fields, including Tibetan studies, Bon scholarship, codicology, and the regional history of Upper Mustang. By bringing attention to a unique format and collection, it not only expands our understanding of Tibetan book-making traditions but also offers insights into the material culture and religious practices of the Bon community in a historically significant area. The detailed technical and contextual analysis described positions this article as an important resource for specialists and anyone interested in the rich literary and material heritage of the Himalayas. Its findings will undoubtedly stimulate further research into the diverse forms and functions of Tibetan manuscripts.

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