Buddhism and Buddhist Art

Over 180 color photographs from temples, museums, historical sites, and private collections enhance this attractive survey of the Buddhist art of India, Central Asia, China, Korea, Japan, Nepal, Tibet, Sri Lanka, Burma (Myanmar), Indonesia, Cambodia, Thailand, and Vietnam. It presents the life story and teachings of Sakyamuni Buddha, founder of Buddhism, as shown in paintings, sculptures, and other works of art, and explores the major schools of Buddhism—Theravada, Mahayana, Vajrayana, Zen—and the styles and characteristics of the Buddhas, bodhisattvas, deities, and other images seen in their art.

Everyone interested in Buddhist art and its enduring significance will find this volume a useful reference for the study and appreciation of the various gestures, poses, and artistic elements seen in Buddhist art through the ages.

Charles F. Chicarelli, a long-time resident of Thailand, has been studying the many schools of Buddhism and their art for over forty years.

Preface

Introduction

1. The Life and Teachings of Sakyamuni Buddha

2. Buddhist Art and Buddhist Beliefs: Theravada, Mahayana, Vajrayana, and Zen

Appendix 1: Mudra, Asana, and Bhanga Terminology

Appendix 2: The Five Transcendent Buddhas of the Mahayana and Vajrayana Faiths

Glossary

Notes

Bibliography

List of Illustrations and Photo Credits

Acknowledgments

Index