Bali/Java - Illuminated lontar-manuscript met houtsnijwerk en figuurvoorstellingen - 1900

A particularly complete lontar manuscript with both engraved text and richly decorated illustration panels, originating from Bali or East Java. This type of manuscript was traditionally made from dried lontar palm leaves and used for religious, literary, and ritual purposes.
Features
Material: lontarpalm leaves, hand-cut
Technique: hand engraved and rubbed with soot/ink to make the text visible.
Origin: Bali or East Java
Dating: probably 19th century
Cover: two wooden flat cores with a decorative leaf motif.
Original lontar fiber binding
Extra: two Chinese cash coins, traditionally added for protection and as a ritual closure.
Decoration & content
The manuscript contains various figurative engravings.
Dancing or ritual figures in traditional costume.
geometric patterns and stylized vegetation
Scenes with symbolic hand gestures (mudras)
Fine line engravings typical of the classical wayang style.
The text is written in a classical Old Javanese/Balinese script (Kawi or Balinese script). These manuscripts typically contain passages from Hindu epics, ritual instructions, or protective mantras.
Condition
In good condition for his age
Pages complete, no major tears.
Engravings clearly visible
wooden cover with a beautiful, authentic patina
mounting binding intact
Normal signs of aging such as slight discoloration and minimal leaf curling, consistent with an original lontar manuscript of this age.
Special and collectible
Complete copy with plates and text.
with original coins and fiber binding, rare and intact
decorative value and interesting for experts in Indonesian manuscripts, ethnography, and religious art.
An authentic and decorative piece of heritage from the Indonesian archipelago.