A pothi is a traditional form of Indian book. Pothis generally have palm-leaf pages. The pages are bound along their long edge with loops of string, and then kept between wooden outer covers. Both the pages and the covers can be beautifully illuminated. Indian and Nepalese pothis were the basis for the development of Tibetan pechas, a related form of book that uses unbound paper instead of palm leaves.

Published November 10, 2022

Sign up for our emails

Get the latest news and stories from the Rubin, plus occasional information on how to support our work.

Discover artworks, articles, and more by typing a search term above, selecting a term below, or exploring common concepts in Himalayan art.