The Art of Manuscripts: Sanchipat & Tulapat Tradition
The ancient art of manuscripts thrived in medieval Assam, primarily on sanchipat (processed bark of the Aquilaria agallocha tree) and tulapat (handmade cotton paper). These manuscripts had intricate paintings depicting historical, mythical, and religious themes.
Figure 1- Sanchipat, 2020, Source- www.google.com , date of accession- 7Mar 2025
Figure 2- Tulapat, Source- https://icharchive.intach.org/Detail/objects/14090 Date of accession- 7th Mar 2025
Historical Background
Manuscript composition and manuscript writing in Assam have existed since medieval times, flourished best under the reign of Ahom dynasty (1228–1826 CE). Assamese illustrated manuscripts were largely sectarian, used in the transcription of Hindu epics like Ramayana and Mahabharata and different Vaishnavite compositions related to Bhakti movement, particularly under the guidance of Srimanta Sankardev (1449–1568 CE). One of the well known works of Assamese illustrated manuscripts is Hastividyarnava, a 17th century work by Sukumar Barkaith on elephants sponsored by Ahom King Siva Singha and his Queen Ambika. The manuscript contains elaborate illustrations of elephants in different forms and postures, evidence of the artistic skill of the period. Some other important manuscripts are Kirtan-Ghosa, Gita-Govinda and Bhakti-Ratnavali each with beautiful illustrations of gods, saints and mythological tales.
Figure3- Hastividyarnava manuscript, Source- www.google.com date of accesion- 8th Mar 2025
Materials and Techniques
Manuscript writing relied on two basic materials:
- Sanchipat: It was a product of the bark of Aquilaria agallocha tree, which was very durable. The bark was soaked, dried and smoothened with conch shells to form a smooth surface for writing. This material was very precious because some manuscripts were found to have lasted for centuries without much decay.
- Tulapat: It was created from tula (cotton). The fibers of the cotton were wet, beaten into pulp and dried into sheets. This hand-typed paper was a good alternative to sanchipat especially when sanchi trees were not available.
Natural Colors and Illustration Techniques:
The natural coloring used in manuscript writing came from minerals and flora:
- Hengul (Vermilion) – Derived from cinnabar, used for red colors.
- Haital (Orpiment) – From arsenic sulfide, used for yellow.
- Indigo – Derived from Indigo fera plants, used for blue.
- Lac and Lamp Black – Used for deep red and black ink.
Figure 6- colours, 2024, source- www.google.com, date of accesion- 8th mar 2025
Artists used fine brushes of animal hair to paint detailed paintings. The paintings were linear in style with bold lines, flat coloring and little shading, just like the traditional Assamese style.
Decline of the Tradition The decline of manuscript writing in Assam is due to many reasons:
- Colonial Disruption: With the introduction of printing press during British colonization, the demand for hand-drawn manuscripts decreased. Paper-based books introduced later replaced the earlier method of manuscript writing.
- Loss of Patronage: During Ahom period, royalty and aristocratic families patronized manuscript painting. But with the decline of Ahom Empire and modern education, the system of patronage broke down.
- Material Scarcity: The sanchi tree (Aquilaria agallocha) required for sanchipat preparation is now an endangered species due to deforestation and facing extinction.
- Changing Cultural Preferences: Nowadays, printed books and digital media have taken over from handwritten manuscripts. There is no market for traditional manuscripts and the youth is more inclined towards new art forms rather than learning the long process of manuscript painting.
Revival Efforts and the Way Forward
Although in decline, there are various efforts being made to conserve and revive manuscript:
- Documentation and Conservation: Organizations like Srimanta Sankaradeva Kalakshetra in Guwahati and Assam State Museum are actively engaged in documentation and conservation of old manuscripts. Old manuscripts are being digitized to make them last longer.
- Academic Research and Awareness: Universities and research centers are researching the techniques of manuscript writing and organizing workshops to teach students and artists about this ancient art. Researchers are writing research papers to create awareness about these manuscripts.
- Sustainable Alternatives: Since sanchipat is not available; scientists are looking for substitute materials to create manuscripts. Handmade paper and natural colours are being used to reproduce traditional manuscripts in a way that does not harm the environment.
- Inclusion in Art and History: Curriculum Including manuscript writing in art and history courses in schools and colleges may generate interest among young students. With practical training, students can master the art of manuscript illustration.
- Public Exhibitions and Digital Platforms: Museums, art galleries and cultural organizations are organizing exhibitions to showcase manuscript writings. Digital platforms and social media can also play a crucial role in promoting awareness about this dying art to global audience.
Conclusion
Manuscript writing is more than just an art form; it is a part of the region’s cultural and historical heritage. The intricate illustrations seen on Sanchipat and Tulapat manuscripts represent centuries of tradition and custom that must be acknowledged and preserved. With the latest initiatives by scholars, institutions and artists are trying to keep this dying art alive and intact. Manuscript painting can be a model for future generations if it incorporates both contemporary technology and traditional techniques with eco-friendly practices.
References
Baruah, S. 2013. History of Assamese Manuscripts. Guwahati: Assam Publication Board.
Choudhury, A. 2018. “Conservation Challenges of Sanchipat Manuscripts.” Indian Journal of Conservation Science 12 (1): 45–56.
Goswami, P. 2006. Traditional Painting Techniques of Assam. New Delhi: Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts (IGNCA).
Neog, M. 1980. Vaishnavism and Assamese Culture. Guwahati: Assam Sahitya Sabha.
Sharma, K. 2015. Illustrated Manuscripts of Assam: A study of Hasti-Vidyanarva. Kolkata: Asiatic Society.
About the Author:
Author: Tanaya Acharjee
Tanaya Acharjee, with expertise in archaeology and history, specializes in the study of sculptures, landscapes, and cultural heritage. Her work includes archaeological excavations, museum documentation, and research on intangible heritage, adopting a multidisciplinary approach to the past.
