This beautiful manuscript recounts in words and images the visionary experiences of the Great Fifth Dalai Lama, Ngawang Lobzang Gyamtso [1617-1682]. A new discovery, it is the sole illustrated secret autobiography known to exist in the world. Hitherto totally concealed both from Tibetans and others alike, and recently acquired for the Fournier Collection, it is only now that this extraordinary document comes to light and is available for study. Although it never circulated outside his personal court, the Dalai Lama clearly states that it was composed and executed »in order to guide the uninitiated and for all those who wish to do drawings and paintings of the heavens«
