This dissertation investigates the $1\rm\sp{st}$ to $6\rm\sp{th}$ century creation and development of relic and image shrines in Gandhara. The first part of the dissertation examines the relic tradition as reflected in the architectural evidence; the second looks to sculptural evidence to better understand both the relic tradition and the emergence of devotional images; finally, the third part, utilizing architectural evidence, traces the growing importance of the iconic image.
In chapter one a relative chronology of Gandharan architecture, is presented as well as a general outline of the geography in which the architecture is found and of the region's political history. The second chapter addresses the development of monastic architecture and the use of image and relic shrines in this context. Next attention is shifted to the public sacred area, with chapter three examining the phenomenon of direct relic worship and chapter four the early architectural organization and development.
Part II (includes chapters five and six), which examines the images that would have adorned stupas and relic shrines or been housed in image shrines within the sacred and monastic areas. Chapter 5 presents a historiography of Gandharan sculpture and chapter six investigates the architectural context, dating and relative chronology of narrative and iconic sculpture.
In Part III chapters seven through nine outline the late architectural development and analyze the emerging importance of iconic images through case studies of key sites at Taxila. This investigation of the late phase is substantiated and expanded in chapter nine through the study of two important sites in the Peshawar basin (Takht-i-bahi and Mekhasanda) where the late development, of the use of images in their architectural context, is best exemplified.
It is hoped that the dissertation will be helpful in broader contexts. It assembles much of the sacred Gandharan architectural evidence from the Peshawar basin, Taxila and Swat into a single source. New light has been shed on the monastic and sacred architecture of Gandhara and the use of relics as well as of narrative and iconic images that hopefully can be applied to Buddhist art and architecture throughout the Indian sub-continent.
