The Handbook of Tibetan Buddhist Symbols

by Robert Beer

A deep and encompassing dive into the vast array of symbols and attributes that appear within the complex iconography of Tibetan Buddhism

The Handbook of Tibetan Buddhist Symbols is a portal into the rich, multifaceted, and profound symbolism of Tibetan sacred art. The succinct descriptions that accompany Robert Beer’s detailed line drawings reveal the origins, meanings, and functions of these symbols. Beer unravels the multiple layers of symbolism and meaning contained within the iconography, affording the reader a panoramic vision into the deeper dimensions of this sacred art.

Drawn largely from Beer’s monumental work The Encyclopedia of Tibetan Symbols and Motifs, the meticulous brush drawings in this book depict all of the major Buddhist symbols and motifs, including the various groups of auspicious symbols; cosmological symbols; natural and mythical animals, such as the dragon, garuda , and makara ; the entire assembly of ritual tantric implements and weapons; magical and wrathful symbols; handheld emblems, attributes, and plants; esoteric Vajrayana offerings; and mudras , or ritual hand gestures.

Genres: Buddhism, Reference, Religion, Art, Philosophy, Spirituality, Research

288 pages, Paperback

First published September 10, 2003

About the author

Robert Beer has studied and practiced Tibetan thangka painting for thirty years, including five years of study with master artists Jampa of Dharamsala and Khamtrül Rinpoche of Tashijong. Beer is one of the first Westerners to become actively involved in this art form. Over the last two decades he has concentrated on an extensive series of iconographical drawings depicting the major deities, lineage holders, and symbols that occur in the spectrum of Tibetan art.

Reviews

[Erik Steevens · Rating 5 out of 5]

In fact, it is not a book to be read from cover to cover. It is a book for studying the Tibetian art used in drawings and paintings and also in sculptures. It will be a thankful source for my own drawing and painting skills.

[Daniel · Rating 5 out of 5]

understately AMAZING visual resource. the most delicate, yet the strongest of line work of images ranging from ornate animals to obtusely decorative animals to severed limbs...

[Carl Liu · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very cool, lots of interesting information and just pleasing to look at.

[Paul Brooks · Rating 3 out of 5]

lots of beautiful linedrawings in the tibetan style. a good tibetan studies resource to have around. most of the descriptions and history are about the hindu origins . A good amount of reference to Tibetan culture too though.

[Ayla · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love this book! My go-to resource for my interest in Indo-Tibetan symbolism and mythology.