From the nascence of Buddhism in India, in the fifth and sixth centuries BC, Buddhist doctrines spread into Southeast and North Asia through scriptures, paintings and sculptures. Buddhist art has become a distinct, complex and long-lasting cultural influence and Buddhist culture has been widely disseminated throughout the region for nearly two-and-half millennia. Sacred images have, through the ages, become part of peoples' consciousness. By adopting a wide range of gestures and postures and holding various ritual objects, each personage of the Buddhist pantheon demonstrates his or her own spiritual meaning and aesthetic form. This scholarly and beautifully illustrated book traces the spread of Buddhist art throughout Asia from India. The first part is a series of 14 essays discussing aspects of recent research in Buddhist art historical studies, from inter-regional influences though the development of Buddhist thought in China to problems of dating artifacts and monuments. In the second part, 121 sacred works of art, ranging from sculptures to manuscripts, are stunningly illustrated, and their significance to the overall theme discussed in intelligent and scholarly detail. A selective glossary, maps, a comparative chronology and detailed bibliography complement the text and illustrations. In the Footsteps of the Buddha is a work to delight the scholar and the enthusiast alike. "In the Footsteps of the Buddha" is a publication of the University Museum and Art Gallery, University of Hong Kong. * Stunningly illustrated and scholarly work * Traces the development of Buddhism throughout Asia through sacred works of art * Essays on recent research in Buddhist art Historical studies by eminent scholars * 121 individual icons, from statues to manuscripts, discussed in detail
