Die Schätze Buddhasvon Siddhartha Gautama Bis Heute

by Tom Lowenstein

Here is a photographic celebration of the greatest Buddhist art and monuments—all placed in a rich historical and cultural context. These beautifully presented sacred treasures and relics paint a vivid portrait of this venerable religion, from its point of origin in northern India and outward, through the different kingdoms and empires of central, southern, and eastern Asia. Each region receives individual attention, with an examination of Buddhism’s influence on the area, its incredible legacy of artifacts and monuments, and the meaning of the faith’s exquisite devotional paintings and emblems. In close-up images see The Temple of the God King in Cambodia; an elaborately carved ivory netsuke—or Japanese miniature sculpture that was hung from kimonos and sashes; and a gilt statue of the Buddha himself.

Genres: Buddhism

Hardcover

First published January 1, 2006

About the author

Tom Lowenstein was an English poet, ethnographer, teacher, cultural historian and translator. Beginning his working life as a school teacher, he visited Alaska in 1973 and went on to become particularly noted for his work on Inupiaq (north Alaskan Eskimo) ethnography, conducting research in Point Hope, Alaska, between 1973 and 1988. His writing also encompasses several collections of poetry, as well as books related to Buddhism. Since 1986, Lowenstein lived and continued teaching in London.

Reviews

[Bae Logsdon · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed this book. It gave detailed pictures of works of art of the Buddha throughout history and at various regions in the world. It wasn't limited to one right way of Buddhism but how it spread and changed with each branch of teachings. The information, while not as big as the pictures, still provided a good understanding about the artifacts displayed and the story behind them. Great book for first time readers wanting to understand the beginning of this religion.

[Marsha Altman · Rating 5 out of 5]

A great introduction to not only the different ways the Buddha is portrayed in different Asian countries, but also different kinds of Buddhism as it developed in India and beyond and how those beliefs shaped the art. Also, it was on the Barnes and Noble discount rack, so great price!

[Spencer Tompkins · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very interesting book with a lot of artwork. Covers basic ideas behind Buddhism, but mainly for the Buddhist art enthusiast.

[Richp · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a visually beautiful book. It is rather short, and therefore not comprehensive, but is a good introduction to its subject.