Item Description 飯島太千雄 Iijima Tachio（1942-） The History of the Core Sutra of Perfect Wisdom and the Aesthetics of Prayer / 般若心経の歴史と祈りの美学 Written by Iijima Tachio and translated into English by Inui Yumiko, this richly illustrated bilingual hardcover volume offers a comprehensive exploration of the Heart Sutra (Hannya Shingyo) — one of the most revered and widely chanted scriptures in the Buddhist tradition. The book traces the historical origins and transmission of the Heart Sutra from ancient India through China and into Japan, examining how this compact yet profound text became a cornerstone of devotional practice across multiple Buddhist schools. The author also delves into the aesthetics of sutra copying (shakyo), illuminating the spiritual discipline and artistic tradition that surrounds this practice. With beautiful full-color photographs and scholarly yet accessible text presented in both Japanese and English, this volume is an invaluable resource for practitioners, scholars, and collectors with an interest in Buddhist art, calligraphy, and spiritual culture. The endpapers feature a stunning reproduction of the Heart Sutra text in gold characters on a dark background, making the book itself a visual treasure. Published by Seirinsha. ISBN: 4-915741-09-5. Original retail price: ¥3,900. Size Height: 26.5 cm Width: 23 cm Depth: 3 cm Weight 1,107 g Condition The book is in good used condition overall, with only minor wear to the cover. Artist Profile 飯島太千雄 Iijima Tachio（1942-） Iijima Tachio (born 1942) is a Japanese scholar and researcher specializing in the history of calligraphy and Buddhist scriptures. Born in Roppongi, Tokyo, as the third son of celebrated calligraphers Iijima Shunkei and Keihō, he studied French literature at Gakushūin University before pursuing a career in the editorial production of scholarly books and facsimile reproductions of classical manuscripts at Shogei Bunka Shinsha. He has published extensively on the history of calligraphy in journals such as Bokubi and Shohin, and since 1980 has dedicated himself entirely to writing, research, and editorial work through his studio "Shogen." He is the author of numerous books on Buddhist texts and calligraphic tradition, including works on the Heart Sutra and Kūkai (Kōbō Daishi). NOITICE: The lot will be carefully packaged and sent by Japan Post, DHL or FedEx depend on the situation. It takes about 3 weeks to receive normally. Import duties, taxes, and charges are not included in the item price or shipping cost. These charges are the buyer's responsibility. Sometimes Customes or delivery company in your country contact you for Customs clearance via phone or email. Please make sure that you could answer the phone. If you don't, the parcel will return to me and it cost more double shipping fee for reshipping. I appreciate your cooperation.