145 x 95 mm. Single volume, decorated manuscript on paper with illuminated miniatures in the text. In Sanskrit copied in Devangari script, 257 leaves (245 text, miniatures, and blanks, 4 of these interfoliated plus one at the front and back.) Text in single column, 6 lines black devangari script, some important words and phrases in orange, 12 leaves with decorated polychrome borders around the text. 6 full-page contemporary miniature paintings in the text; some light surface soiling in places, the frontispiece miniature rubbed, else in a bright and attractive condition. Later textured green boards with matching flap, lower hinge worn with loss, Rear endpaper loose. The Bhagavad Gita is a Sanskrit scripture in verse that forms part of the vast epic poem Mahabarata; one of the two major Hindu foundational texts. The 'Gita' is the most influential and celebrated part of the Mahabharata and is structured as a narrative between Prince Arjuna and Krishna. The text portrays Hindu themes of selfless leadership and love that has inspired people for over a millenia: Gandhi famously referred to the Gita as his "spiritual dictionary." Coloured plates include: 1. Krishna and Arjuna riding on a horse-drawn chariot. 2. Lord Krishna shows Vishvarupa to Arjuna (Gita Upadesha.) 3. Lord Vishnu with Lakshmi and Sarawati on Sheshnag and Brahma. 4. Arjuna consults the King. 5. Gajendra Moksha Vishnu protecting Gajendra, the elephant, from the clutches of a crocodile.)