Tibetan Buddhist Esoteric Art

Author: Li Ji Cheng
Publisher:
Publishing Time: 1999-01-01
Features: The Realm of Tibetan Buddhism Esoteric Buddhism, which originated in ancient India, was introduced into Tibet in the seventh century. Since then, it has evolved in different social and historical environments into a unique sect known as Tibetan Esoteric Buddhism. Regarded by the Tibetan Buddhists as "the essence of the sacred religion," it has a long tradition in Tibet and its influence on the culture, history, and life of the Tibetan people has been very strong. To gain a true understanding of Tibetan Esoteric Buddhism, one has to study not only its canonical texts but also its works of art related to the religious beliefs. These works, in various forms and expressions, will bring one into visual contact with the religious order. The Realm of Tibetan Buddhism outlines the origin, development, canonical texts, meditative practices, and, in particular, the works of art related to Tibetan Esoteric Buddhism. These works of art are divided into eight categories: bronzes, cloth painting, frescoes, clay molding, wood carving, wood tablet painting, stone carving, and ritual objects. The 159 pictures contained in this book, which amply show the works of art in their traditional style, are taken directly from various sites in Tibet during a period of five years. Many of the objects shown in the pictures are valuable cultural relics and rare items of art in Tibet. The Realm of Tibetan Buddhism, with its scholarly introduction and precious pictures, will be of enormous value to artists, students, and scholars of Buddhism in general and of Tibetan Buddhism in particular.