Religion & the arts
1 total work
Explores the ancient and living Indian religious tradition of the Jains through their rich artistic culture. A close examination of the interrelationships and resemblances between different levels of Jain imagery and iconography, drawing on historical, ritual and doctrinal evidence, uncovers an organic unity behind the paradox of a religion which celebrates world-renouncing ascetism through a vibrant artistic culture. Specific historical questions of religious change are addressed within a wider synchronic context, and the analysis is informed throughout by an awareness of Jainism as an element in an extensive, pan-Indian religious culture, which it both reflects and has helped to form. Among subjects treated are the ritual and symbolic role of temples, images of Jains and their attendant deities, images of monks and nuns, pilgrimage sites and their artistic depiction, illustrated manuscripts, cosmograms and the significance of aniconic movements.