Click for Webinar I Resources I Booklet

Early manuscripts are very rare in the region due to the perishable nature of the materials used (palm leaves, tree bark, paper, etc.). Although the illustrations and decoration in Malay manuscripts may combine subjects and motifs inspired from other regions, they have found unique expressions in the Malay world. Among the characteristic artistic features are the prevalence of floral and vegetal motifs, a limited use of perspective and shading, a specific palette of colours, as well as distinct local iconographic elements. Magic and divination manuscripts, common in the region, hold numerous fascinating illustrations and diagrams serving different purposes.