A Thai Illuminated Manuscript of the Buddhist Phra Malai Tale19th century, ink and watercolor with gilt highlights on accordion folding pages, with 18 vivid illustrations flanking hand written text, 100 pages total, between two lacquered covers, this manuscript recounts the classic Thai Theravada Buddhist text of the monk Malai, on his journey to hell and heaven, the popular story serves as a moralizing tale in which the consequences of one’s deeds in this life impact on one’s fate in the next.3 x 26 1/4 x 5 1/2 in., fully extended 550 in.A similar manuscript sold at Bonhams, June 27, 2017, Lot 8025.Private Collection, North CarolinaAdditional high-resolution photos are available at www.lelandlittle.com Condition Report Wear with some loss to corners and edges of papers and lacquered covers; some minor staining and toning to paper; some text has been painted over in white and corrected in places.