Several of you asked what books I'm reading on Buddhism. Here are a few I use for research that I've had in my collection for years. Most are texts used at university. They help me to get my facts right! I like to give some historical background before I talk about the *art*.
The first is Religions of Asia. The general editor is Robert K.C. Forman and is the third edition. It was used as a text.
The next is my all time favorite for figuring out the iconography of Buddhist art. Reading Buddhist Art: An Illustrated Guide To Buddhist Signs and Symbols by Meher McArthur, published by Thames and Hudson, 2002.
India:The Cultural Companion by Richard Waterstone is a book I found remaindered at Barnes and Noble. This book describes the main themes in the Hindu, Buddhist, Jain and other spiritual traditions of India.
The Buddhist Religion: A Historical Introduction (fourth edition) by Robinson and Johnson was used as a textbook. This may be my favorite as far as historical information on the Buddhist tradition worldwide.
I don't know if this helps anyone! There are others in our library. Many art books from the Met.
Loads of books on the Dalai Lama and Tibetan Buddhism.
Well, yes it does help. It's always good to have an opinion on a vast library of material on one subject. I do like to read Pema Chodron. She seems to have such a human side to her buddhism.
ReplyDeleteOh thank you Snap!!!! Sarah
ReplyDeleteThank you! Somehow I missed this post! I find it all so fascinating. xo
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