The document provides an overview of Indian art until the 13th century, covering many religions in India including Buddhism, Hinduism, and their artistic traditions. It discusses key Buddhist concepts like the first sermon of Buddha and important figures like Bodhisattvas. For Hinduism, it outlines the pantheon of major gods like Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva and covers elements of Hindu temples and iconic sculptures such as the Nataraja bronze. Regional artistic styles from areas like Orissa and important architectural works like at Sanchi and Angkor Wat are also summarized.
This document provides an overview of Indian art until the 13th century, covering both Buddhist and Hindu art traditions. It discusses the major religions in India such as Hinduism, Buddhism, Islam, and others. For Buddhist art, it describes the life of Buddha and key iconographic elements in Buddhist statues and architecture like stupas. For Hindu art, it outlines the main Hindu gods and concepts of dharma, karma, and samsara. It also examines architectural features of Hindu temples and provides examples from sites in India like Deogarh and Orissa as well as Angkor Wat in Cambodia. Sculptural styles are discussed through works like the Shiva Nataraja.
The document compares the structure of the human body to that of a Hindu temple. It discusses how ancient texts like those of Vitruvius first drew comparisons between architecture and the human form in terms of symmetry. Hindu temples in particular were designed to represent the human body, with different structural elements symbolizing parts of the body. However, early temples predated the conception of deities in human form, so the temple structure does not always directly mimic the body. Overall, the temple can be seen as a physical representation of the divine presence, with the human body itself considered a "temple" for the indwelling spirit.
The document lists terms related to ancient Indian empires and art from the Maurya and Kushan periods. It includes the names of rulers like Chandragupta Maurya and Kanishka, religions practiced such as Buddhism, Hinduism and Jainism, and art forms such as sculptures of animals, humans in specific poses, and architectural features of structures like stupas and rock-cut caves. The Maurya Empire founded by Chandragupta was one of the largest in ancient times, while the Kushan Empire under Kanishka encouraged Greco-Buddhist and Hindu art styles and hosted an important Buddhist council.
3 rev - art of south and southeast asia before 1200 ceRoxanne Farrar
This document provides an overview of art in India before 1200 CE, beginning with the Indus Valley Civilization and its major sites like Mohenjo-Daro. It discusses Harappan artforms like painted pottery, seals, figures, and notable works. The Vedic period and its scriptures are introduced. Key Hindu concepts are defined, including the trimurti gods Brahma, Vishnu, Shiva, samsara, bhakti, and puja. Hindu aesthetics principles of visual abundance, symbolism, and prana are covered. Sacred architecture of Hindu temples is analyzed, including elements like the garbhagriha and styles like Nagara and Dravida. Significant art
The document provides information about the Mahakumbhabhishekam ceremony for the idol of Lord Shiva as Nataraja that will take place at the Chidambaram Temple in Tamil Nadu, India on May 1st, 2015. It also provides background details on the significance of Nataraja in Hinduism, the architecture and layout of the Chidambaram Temple complex, the story and legends associated with the temple, and beliefs regarding the "Chidambara Rahasyam" secret. The temple is considered one of the holiest Shiva sites and is believed to be located at the cosmic center of the magnetic equator.
The document discusses the symbolism between temple architecture and the human body. It describes how different parts of the temple represent aspects of consciousness and the chakra system. The spire represents the head, the entrance the feet, and the inner sanctum the heart. It views the body as a temple for the indwelling divine spirit. Rituals and the process of moving through the temple guide an inner spiritual worship and evolution towards self-realization.
Southeast Asia was an early center of Buddhist art and architecture before 1200. Key sites included the great stupa at Sanchi from the 3rd century BCE, which was later enlarged. Buddhism arose in India in the 5th century BCE and was influenced by Hinduism and Jainism. Important Buddhist concepts include samsara, karma, nirvana, and the teachings of Siddhartha Gautama. Under King Ashoka in the 3rd century BCE, Buddhism spread across Asia and prominent sites associated with the Buddha's life, like Lumbini, Bodh Gaya, and Sarnath, became pilgrimage destinations.
The Buddhist architecture developed in South Asia in the 3rd century BCE and included three main structure types - monasteries (viharas), stupas, and temples (chaitya grihas). Stupas began as structures to house Buddhist relics and later became incorporated into chaitya-grihas or temple halls. Pagodas evolved from stupas and spread across Asia, incorporating regional architectural details. Distinctive Buddhist structures like stupas, pagodas, viharas, and cave temples quietly illustrate the development of Buddhism over different eras.
This document provides an overview of Indian art until the 13th century, covering both Buddhist and Hindu art traditions. It discusses the major religions in India such as Hinduism, Buddhism, Islam, and others. For Buddhist art, it describes the life of Buddha and key iconographic elements in Buddhist statues and architecture like stupas. For Hindu art, it outlines the main Hindu gods and concepts of dharma, karma, and samsara. It also examines architectural features of Hindu temples and provides examples from sites in India like Deogarh and Orissa as well as Angkor Wat in Cambodia. Sculptural styles are discussed through works like the Shiva Nataraja.
The document compares the structure of the human body to that of a Hindu temple. It discusses how ancient texts like those of Vitruvius first drew comparisons between architecture and the human form in terms of symmetry. Hindu temples in particular were designed to represent the human body, with different structural elements symbolizing parts of the body. However, early temples predated the conception of deities in human form, so the temple structure does not always directly mimic the body. Overall, the temple can be seen as a physical representation of the divine presence, with the human body itself considered a "temple" for the indwelling spirit.
The document lists terms related to ancient Indian empires and art from the Maurya and Kushan periods. It includes the names of rulers like Chandragupta Maurya and Kanishka, religions practiced such as Buddhism, Hinduism and Jainism, and art forms such as sculptures of animals, humans in specific poses, and architectural features of structures like stupas and rock-cut caves. The Maurya Empire founded by Chandragupta was one of the largest in ancient times, while the Kushan Empire under Kanishka encouraged Greco-Buddhist and Hindu art styles and hosted an important Buddhist council.
3 rev - art of south and southeast asia before 1200 ceRoxanne Farrar
This document provides an overview of art in India before 1200 CE, beginning with the Indus Valley Civilization and its major sites like Mohenjo-Daro. It discusses Harappan artforms like painted pottery, seals, figures, and notable works. The Vedic period and its scriptures are introduced. Key Hindu concepts are defined, including the trimurti gods Brahma, Vishnu, Shiva, samsara, bhakti, and puja. Hindu aesthetics principles of visual abundance, symbolism, and prana are covered. Sacred architecture of Hindu temples is analyzed, including elements like the garbhagriha and styles like Nagara and Dravida. Significant art
The document provides information about the Mahakumbhabhishekam ceremony for the idol of Lord Shiva as Nataraja that will take place at the Chidambaram Temple in Tamil Nadu, India on May 1st, 2015. It also provides background details on the significance of Nataraja in Hinduism, the architecture and layout of the Chidambaram Temple complex, the story and legends associated with the temple, and beliefs regarding the "Chidambara Rahasyam" secret. The temple is considered one of the holiest Shiva sites and is believed to be located at the cosmic center of the magnetic equator.
The document discusses the symbolism between temple architecture and the human body. It describes how different parts of the temple represent aspects of consciousness and the chakra system. The spire represents the head, the entrance the feet, and the inner sanctum the heart. It views the body as a temple for the indwelling divine spirit. Rituals and the process of moving through the temple guide an inner spiritual worship and evolution towards self-realization.
Southeast Asia was an early center of Buddhist art and architecture before 1200. Key sites included the great stupa at Sanchi from the 3rd century BCE, which was later enlarged. Buddhism arose in India in the 5th century BCE and was influenced by Hinduism and Jainism. Important Buddhist concepts include samsara, karma, nirvana, and the teachings of Siddhartha Gautama. Under King Ashoka in the 3rd century BCE, Buddhism spread across Asia and prominent sites associated with the Buddha's life, like Lumbini, Bodh Gaya, and Sarnath, became pilgrimage destinations.
The Buddhist architecture developed in South Asia in the 3rd century BCE and included three main structure types - monasteries (viharas), stupas, and temples (chaitya grihas). Stupas began as structures to house Buddhist relics and later became incorporated into chaitya-grihas or temple halls. Pagodas evolved from stupas and spread across Asia, incorporating regional architectural details. Distinctive Buddhist structures like stupas, pagodas, viharas, and cave temples quietly illustrate the development of Buddhism over different eras.
The document discusses the origins, evolution, and architectural elements of stupas and viharas in ancient India. It provides details on some key early stupas like the Great Stupa at Sanchi and the Dhamekh Stupa at Sarnath. It also describes the rock-cut viharas at Ajanta and Ellora that served as monasteries for Buddhist monks, as well as chaitya halls used for worship that were elaborately decorated with sculptures and paintings.
The Maurya and Gupta periods saw the rise and fall of two large empires in ancient India.
The Maurya Empire, founded by Chandragupta Maurya in 322 BCE, united much of the Indian subcontinent under Ashoka's rule. Ashoka promoted Buddhism and ethical rule after converting following a bloody battle. The empire declined after his death as it split into separate kingdoms.
The Gupta Empire, founded by Chandragupta I in 320 CE, also covered much of India. It saw economic and cultural growth in the arts, literature, science, and mathematics during this "Golden Age of India." The empire declined due to corrupt governors and decentralization, falling to invaders by
The Gupta Empire ruled much of northern India from 320 to 550 CE and established a period of peace and prosperity. This Golden Age of India saw advancements in science, technology, art, literature, and religion that solidified Hindu culture. Gupta architecture can be seen in their elaborate temples built to various Hindu gods during this religiously intense time. Sculpture also flourished as figures of Hindu deities and Buddhas emerged.
The document discusses notable buildings, paintings, and books from ancient India. It describes the Iron Pillar at Mehrauli, which is over 7 meters tall and made over 1500 years ago without signs of rusting. It explains stupas, large mound-like structures containing Buddhist remains, with examples at Sanchi and Amravati. Hindu temples from the period worshipped deities like Shiva and contained areas for rituals. The Ajantha caves held Buddhist monasteries decorated with paintings. Famous books included Tamil epics like Silappadikaram and Sanskrit works by authors like Kalidasa.
The document summarizes the art of Odisha/Kalinga from 700-1300 CE, which was dominated by Buddhist and Jain influences. It describes key architectural sites from this period including rock cut caves and structures at Udayagiri and Khandagiri that were built by King Kharvela for Jain ascetics. Monastery complexes and stupas from the Buddhist period are discussed at sites such as Ratnagiri, Lalitgiri, Langudi, and Pushpagiri. Important sculptures of Buddhist and Jain figures are also noted.
The Gupta Empire was a golden age of India founded by Maharaja Sri Gupta. Key rulers like Chandragupta I and Samudragupta expanded the empire across northern India. The Guptas achieved notable advancements in fields like science, administration, art, and literature. Some of their most famous architectural and artistic works include the Ajanta Caves, Ellora Caves, and temples at Deogarh and Bhitari.
The document describes a Hindu temple from the late Gupta period in 500s CE. The Dasavatar Temple had an entrance hall that led to a dance pavilion and offering hall. A key feature was an image of Vishnu reclining on Shesha.
The Parasurameswara is a small but lavishly decorated temple.It is dated to the 7th Century CE and is one of the oldest temples we will see in Bhubaneswar. The carvings in this temple include narrative reliefs, elaborate decorative motifs, parsva devatas, and much more. In this presentation Vallabha takes us through the highlights of this wonderful example of the "early phase" of the Orissan style.
The Mukteswara Temple was built around 970 AD during the rule of the Somavamsi king Yayati I. It is considered one of the earliest examples of the Kalinga style of temple architecture. The temple features intricate carvings on its walls including images of dancers, vyala riders, and nagas. Its architecture includes a rekha deul shrine, a pidha deul entrance, and sculptures of Gajalakshmi and the Saptamatrikas on the outer walls. The temple marks the beginning of the distinct Odishan style of temple building that would be further refined in later centuries.
Ellora is a UNESCO World Heritage site located in Maharashtra, India, known for its 34 cave monuments excavated from charcoal-colored basalt rock between the 6th and 10th centuries. The caves include Buddhist, Hindu, and Jain temples and monasteries represented through rock-cut architecture, sculptures, and murals. The largest and most famous is the Kailasanatha Temple, a megalithic Hindu temple carved out of a single rock in the 8th century. Other notable caves include the Vishvakarma Cave with its statue of the Buddha in preaching position and the Indra Sabha and Jagannath Sabha Jain caves with carvings of J
The document provides an overview of temple architecture in India, including terminology, styles, and historical sources. It discusses the main styles of nagara, dravida, and vesara temples. Nagara temples originated in North India and have curvilinear towers. Dravida temples are common in South India and have pyramid-shaped towers in stepped forms. Vesara temples, seen in central India, blend elements of nagara and dravida styles. The document also lists early literary sources on temple architecture and characteristics of different styles.
The document discusses Chalukya architecture from the 6th to 8th century in Karnataka, India. It focuses on two temples in Aihole - the oldest being the Ladkhan Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva with 12 carved pillars and carved wall images, and the medieval Durga Temple built in the Nagara style with an unusual apsidal shape resembling the back of an elephant. Both temples have square pillars and openings between pillars.
The city of Ahmadabad was founded by Sultan Ahmad Shah in the 15th century. It has a multicultural character with many religious groups coexisting in the old walled city. Some of the unique architectural aspects of Ahmadabad include the wooden architecture prominently used in homes, with houses built as self-sufficient units. Important sites include the Jama Masjid mosque built between 1423-1442, which was once one of the largest mosques in India.
The document discusses the four Buddhist councils:
1) The first council was held in Rajgir under Mahakashyapa around 483 BCE to preserve the Buddha's teachings. The Suttas and Vinaya were recited.
2) The second council was held in Vaishali around 383 BCE under Sarvakami. It resulted in a split between the Theravada and Mahasanghika sects due to disagreements over 10 points.
3) The third council was held in Pataliputra around 251 BCE under Moggaliputta Tissa to reconcile 18 Buddhist schools. It standardized the Tripitaka in Pali and Ashoka sent missionaries to various
Terracotta : Special Reference to Gupta Period Ajay Kumar
This presentation is prepared by the MA student, to get basic and general information about the subject. This presentation is incomplete and students are advised to get the further and proper information from subjective and recommended books and research articles.
The document discusses the temples located in Osian, near Jodhpur, India that date between the 8th-11th century AD. It mentions four important temples - the Jain temple dedicated to Lord Mahavira built in 783 AD, the Sachiya Mata temple dedicated to Sachi Mata built initially in the 8th century, three Harihara temples dedicated to the union of Shiva and Vishnu built between the 8th-9th century, and the Surya temple dedicated to the sun god built in the 10th century with origins in the 8th century. The temples are adorned with intricate carvings and sculptures and showcase the regional architectural style.
Buddhist religious architecture developed in the Indian subcontinent.
Three types of structures are associated with the religious architecture of early Buddhism:
monasteries , places to venerate relics , and shrines or prayer halls , also called , which later came to be called temples in some places.
Hinduism originated in India and remained influential there. Important Hindu art includes rock cut cave temples and sculptures from the Pallava dynasty in southern India between the 7th-8th centuries. Northern Indian temples from the 10th-11th centuries tended to be more compact with tall towers. Buddhism also spread from India, influencing art in places like Afghanistan with giant Buddha statues, Tibet with painted thangkas, and Sri Lanka where Buddhism was established.
The document discusses the origins, evolution, and architectural elements of stupas and viharas in ancient India. It provides details on some key early stupas like the Great Stupa at Sanchi and the Dhamekh Stupa at Sarnath. It also describes the rock-cut viharas at Ajanta and Ellora that served as monasteries for Buddhist monks, as well as chaitya halls used for worship that were elaborately decorated with sculptures and paintings.
The Maurya and Gupta periods saw the rise and fall of two large empires in ancient India.
The Maurya Empire, founded by Chandragupta Maurya in 322 BCE, united much of the Indian subcontinent under Ashoka's rule. Ashoka promoted Buddhism and ethical rule after converting following a bloody battle. The empire declined after his death as it split into separate kingdoms.
The Gupta Empire, founded by Chandragupta I in 320 CE, also covered much of India. It saw economic and cultural growth in the arts, literature, science, and mathematics during this "Golden Age of India." The empire declined due to corrupt governors and decentralization, falling to invaders by
The Gupta Empire ruled much of northern India from 320 to 550 CE and established a period of peace and prosperity. This Golden Age of India saw advancements in science, technology, art, literature, and religion that solidified Hindu culture. Gupta architecture can be seen in their elaborate temples built to various Hindu gods during this religiously intense time. Sculpture also flourished as figures of Hindu deities and Buddhas emerged.
The document discusses notable buildings, paintings, and books from ancient India. It describes the Iron Pillar at Mehrauli, which is over 7 meters tall and made over 1500 years ago without signs of rusting. It explains stupas, large mound-like structures containing Buddhist remains, with examples at Sanchi and Amravati. Hindu temples from the period worshipped deities like Shiva and contained areas for rituals. The Ajantha caves held Buddhist monasteries decorated with paintings. Famous books included Tamil epics like Silappadikaram and Sanskrit works by authors like Kalidasa.
The document summarizes the art of Odisha/Kalinga from 700-1300 CE, which was dominated by Buddhist and Jain influences. It describes key architectural sites from this period including rock cut caves and structures at Udayagiri and Khandagiri that were built by King Kharvela for Jain ascetics. Monastery complexes and stupas from the Buddhist period are discussed at sites such as Ratnagiri, Lalitgiri, Langudi, and Pushpagiri. Important sculptures of Buddhist and Jain figures are also noted.
The Gupta Empire was a golden age of India founded by Maharaja Sri Gupta. Key rulers like Chandragupta I and Samudragupta expanded the empire across northern India. The Guptas achieved notable advancements in fields like science, administration, art, and literature. Some of their most famous architectural and artistic works include the Ajanta Caves, Ellora Caves, and temples at Deogarh and Bhitari.
The document describes a Hindu temple from the late Gupta period in 500s CE. The Dasavatar Temple had an entrance hall that led to a dance pavilion and offering hall. A key feature was an image of Vishnu reclining on Shesha.
The Parasurameswara is a small but lavishly decorated temple.It is dated to the 7th Century CE and is one of the oldest temples we will see in Bhubaneswar. The carvings in this temple include narrative reliefs, elaborate decorative motifs, parsva devatas, and much more. In this presentation Vallabha takes us through the highlights of this wonderful example of the "early phase" of the Orissan style.
The Mukteswara Temple was built around 970 AD during the rule of the Somavamsi king Yayati I. It is considered one of the earliest examples of the Kalinga style of temple architecture. The temple features intricate carvings on its walls including images of dancers, vyala riders, and nagas. Its architecture includes a rekha deul shrine, a pidha deul entrance, and sculptures of Gajalakshmi and the Saptamatrikas on the outer walls. The temple marks the beginning of the distinct Odishan style of temple building that would be further refined in later centuries.
Ellora is a UNESCO World Heritage site located in Maharashtra, India, known for its 34 cave monuments excavated from charcoal-colored basalt rock between the 6th and 10th centuries. The caves include Buddhist, Hindu, and Jain temples and monasteries represented through rock-cut architecture, sculptures, and murals. The largest and most famous is the Kailasanatha Temple, a megalithic Hindu temple carved out of a single rock in the 8th century. Other notable caves include the Vishvakarma Cave with its statue of the Buddha in preaching position and the Indra Sabha and Jagannath Sabha Jain caves with carvings of J
The document provides an overview of temple architecture in India, including terminology, styles, and historical sources. It discusses the main styles of nagara, dravida, and vesara temples. Nagara temples originated in North India and have curvilinear towers. Dravida temples are common in South India and have pyramid-shaped towers in stepped forms. Vesara temples, seen in central India, blend elements of nagara and dravida styles. The document also lists early literary sources on temple architecture and characteristics of different styles.
The document discusses Chalukya architecture from the 6th to 8th century in Karnataka, India. It focuses on two temples in Aihole - the oldest being the Ladkhan Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva with 12 carved pillars and carved wall images, and the medieval Durga Temple built in the Nagara style with an unusual apsidal shape resembling the back of an elephant. Both temples have square pillars and openings between pillars.
The city of Ahmadabad was founded by Sultan Ahmad Shah in the 15th century. It has a multicultural character with many religious groups coexisting in the old walled city. Some of the unique architectural aspects of Ahmadabad include the wooden architecture prominently used in homes, with houses built as self-sufficient units. Important sites include the Jama Masjid mosque built between 1423-1442, which was once one of the largest mosques in India.
The document discusses the four Buddhist councils:
1) The first council was held in Rajgir under Mahakashyapa around 483 BCE to preserve the Buddha's teachings. The Suttas and Vinaya were recited.
2) The second council was held in Vaishali around 383 BCE under Sarvakami. It resulted in a split between the Theravada and Mahasanghika sects due to disagreements over 10 points.
3) The third council was held in Pataliputra around 251 BCE under Moggaliputta Tissa to reconcile 18 Buddhist schools. It standardized the Tripitaka in Pali and Ashoka sent missionaries to various
Terracotta : Special Reference to Gupta Period Ajay Kumar
This presentation is prepared by the MA student, to get basic and general information about the subject. This presentation is incomplete and students are advised to get the further and proper information from subjective and recommended books and research articles.
The document discusses the temples located in Osian, near Jodhpur, India that date between the 8th-11th century AD. It mentions four important temples - the Jain temple dedicated to Lord Mahavira built in 783 AD, the Sachiya Mata temple dedicated to Sachi Mata built initially in the 8th century, three Harihara temples dedicated to the union of Shiva and Vishnu built between the 8th-9th century, and the Surya temple dedicated to the sun god built in the 10th century with origins in the 8th century. The temples are adorned with intricate carvings and sculptures and showcase the regional architectural style.
Buddhist religious architecture developed in the Indian subcontinent.
Three types of structures are associated with the religious architecture of early Buddhism:
monasteries , places to venerate relics , and shrines or prayer halls , also called , which later came to be called temples in some places.
Hinduism originated in India and remained influential there. Important Hindu art includes rock cut cave temples and sculptures from the Pallava dynasty in southern India between the 7th-8th centuries. Northern Indian temples from the 10th-11th centuries tended to be more compact with tall towers. Buddhism also spread from India, influencing art in places like Afghanistan with giant Buddha statues, Tibet with painted thangkas, and Sri Lanka where Buddhism was established.
Stupas architecture by abhishek abhinav sagar Abhishek Singh
The document provides information about Buddhist architecture and stupas. It describes how stupas originated as burial mounds containing Buddhist relics and became places of worship. The principal features of stupas are then outlined, including the dome shape, harmika section at the top, and circular railing or vedica surrounding it. The Great Stupa at Sanchi is discussed as the oldest stone structure in India, with details on its construction and ornamental gateways. Different types of Tibetan stupas are also listed that commemorate important events in the Buddha's life.
The document summarizes art and architecture in South and Southeast Asia before 1200 CE. It discusses the Indus civilization and later periods in India like the Maurya dynasty under Ashoka, who erected the lion capital pillar. The Gupta period saw refined stone sculptures and cave paintings at Ajanta. Buddhism spread across Southeast Asia, seen at sites like Borobudur in Java and Angkor Wat in Cambodia under the Khmer. Hindu art featured gods like Shiva, Vishnu, and their avatars and consorts. Regional styles included flat-roofed temples in the south and spired temples in the north.
The document provides details about Buddhist architecture and key structures found in Buddhist temples. It describes the major architectural features developed during the time of Emperor Ashoka in India, including stupas, stambhas, chaitya halls, and viharas. It provides in-depth descriptions of the design and symbolic meaning of stupas, such as those found at Sanchi and Sarnath. Stupas served as burial mounds containing Buddhist relics and came to represent cosmic symbols in response to the human condition of death in Buddhism.
The document provides an overview of the evolution of Hindu temple architecture during the Gupta period in India. Key developments include the emergence of the first free-standing stone temples, with a central sanctum and pillared porch. Early temples had flat roofs, while later brick and stone temples developed curved towers known as shikharas. Decorative elements like arched doorways and amalaka disks atop towers became characteristic of the Gupta style. By this period, the basic elements of the modern Hindu temple were established.
This document provides an overview of art and culture in India. It divides the subject into three parts: visual arts, performing arts, and miscellaneous arts. Within visual arts, it discusses architecture, sculpture, and painting from various historical periods in India including the Indus Valley civilization, Mauryan period, Gupta age, and medieval and modern eras. It describes the key features and developments of various architectural styles like Nagara, Dravidian, and Vesara. It also summarizes the four major schools of temple architecture in India: Pallava, Chola, Vijayanagar, and Nayaka.
The document provides an overview of the evolution of Hindu temple architecture from early periods like the Gupta period to later dynasties like the Chalukyas and Cholas. It describes key elements of Hindu temple design that emerged during the Gupta period like the sanctum, porch, and circumambulatory path. The Gupta style influenced later styles and introduced decorative features like arched doorways, sculpted panels, and amalaka discs atop shikhara towers. Subsequent dynasties further developed and refined temple architecture through new elements, construction techniques, and regional variations.
Hindu architecture evolved from a combination of indigenous Dravidian styles and those of invading Aryan groups. Key characteristics include ornate temples centered around a small inner shrine (garbha-griha) topped with a spire-shaped roof (sikhara) and surrounded by porch-like prayer halls (mandapas). Two major styles developed - the northern Nagara style using stone and emphasizing vertical elements, and the southern Dravidian style using stone for burial monuments and emphasizing horizontal lines. Important examples include the Sun Temple at Konark, known for its massive stone chariot-shaped structure, and early Chalukyan structural temples at Aihole that blended northern and southern features into a distinctive
This document provides an overview of visual arts, performing arts, and miscellaneous arts in India. It discusses the major periods and styles of Indian architecture and sculpture from the Indus Valley Civilization through modern times. Specific architectural styles covered include Buddhist, Hindu temple architecture during the Gupta Age, cave architecture, and Dravidian architecture. It also examines major sculptural centers and styles that developed during the Mauryan period and beyond. In summary, the document comprehensively surveys the history of arts in India across different mediums and historical periods.
Buddhist monuments_ sanchi, amaravathi & monolithic pillars.Jeevan Lal
The document summarizes several important Buddhist monuments in India, including stupas at Sanchi, Amaravati, and monolithic pillars erected by Emperor Ashoka. It describes the key architectural features of stupas, such as the dome structure, railing, and gateways. Reliefs at Sanchi depict stories from Buddha's life and the Jataka tales. The Amaravati stupa contained elaborate carvings but most were removed and are now in museums. Ashoka's pillars served to spread his ethical edicts and had inscriptions describing Buddhism; some were crowned with lions and erected near important Buddhist sites.
Buddhist architecture in ancient India included structures like stupas, chaityas, viharas, and stambhas. Stupas housed sacred Buddhist relics and had a rounded dome-like shape. Chaityas were prayer halls with a stupa at one end and were made in rock-cut caves. Viharas were monasteries that provided living quarters for monks. Stambhas were tall, polished stone pillars sometimes topped with sculptures. These structures developed under emperors like Ashoka who built many early Buddhist monuments to spread the religion across India.
The document provides details about the Khajuraho temples located in Madhya Pradesh, India. The temples were built between the 9th and 12th centuries by the Chandela dynasty and are known for their erotic sculptures. 25 temples remain today belonging to Hinduism and Jainism. The temples showcase the perfect fusion of architecture and sculpture in the Nagara style and are adorned with sculptures of deities, celestial beings, and secular scenes.
DUJ 2017 - Preparatory Talk - Buddhist centres of Lalitagiri, Ratnagiri and U...tamilheritagetrust
A large number of sites in Odisha have yielded Buddhist remains. The major centres are Lalitagiri, Ratnagiri and Udayagiri, about two and a half hours away from Bhubaneswar. While the area has been mentioned in official records since 1870, periodic archaeological excavations from 1958 and more recently in 1997-2000 have unearthed the ruins of a grand monastic complex with magnificent shrines. The sites have numerous sculptures of the Mahayana and Vajrayana pantheon as well as hundreds of votive stupas. Remains at Lalitagiri have been dated as early as 3rd C CE; Ratnagiri and Udayagiri developed subsequently. They were great centres of Vajrayana buddhism between the 7th and 11th centuries.
The talk will include a quick overview of the three sites as well as a detailed introduction to the Buddhist iconography in Odisha (please refer separate presentation deck on that)
he stupas, temples, viharas, and stambha at Sanchi in central India are among the oldest and most mature examples of aniconic arts and free-standing architecture that comprehensively document the history of Buddhism from the 3rd century BCE to the 12th century CE. About 10 km from Vidisha, the Buddhist monuments at Sanchi, located on a serene and picturesque forested plateau, are also considered to be the sacrosanct Cetiyagiri in the Sri Lankan Buddhist chronicles, where Mahindra, the son of Emperor Aśoka, stopped prior to undertaking his journey as a missionary to Sri Lanka. The enshrined remains of Sariputra and Maudgalyayana (chief disciples of Buddha) in Sanchi were venerated by Theravadins, and continue to be revered to the present day.
The inception of Sanchi as a sacred centre is attributed to the Mauryan emperor Aśoka. His reign in the 3rd century BCE is considered instrumental to the spread of Buddhism throughout the Indian subcontinent. With the establishment of the monolithic Aśoka Stambha (pillar) bearing a highly elaborate capital, Emperor Aśoka distinguished Sanchi as a site of great importance. Contemporary with the stambha was a brick stupa, which was later increased in scale during the Sunga dynasty (184-72 BCE), covered with an ashlar stone veneer, and augmented with circumambulatory paths and staircases with ornate balustrades, harmika, yashti, chhatra, and four torana, which were later ornamented during the Satavahanas dynasty in the 1st century CE. The last addition to the grand stupa was during the Gupta dynasty (5th century CE), when four shrines were added at the cardinal entry points. Today, this grand structure of Sanchi (“Stupa 1”) is considered an incomparable example of the mature phase of Indian stupas. Since Aśokan times, subsequent powerful empires that reigned over this region – such as the Sunga, Kushana, Kshatrapa, and finally Gupta dynasties – continued to contribute to the expansion of Sanchi with the construction of hypostyle, apsidal, and other temples and shrines, comparatively smaller stupas (Stupas 2 and 3), and numerous viharas. Corroborated by inscriptions present in the property, Sanchi remained an important seat of Buddhism until the 13th century CE.
The document discusses various architectural elements of Hindu temples, including railings. It provides details on the railing around the ancient Mahabodhi Temple in Bodh Gaya, including that it dates back to the 2nd century BC and surrounds the Bodhi Tree where Buddha attained enlightenment. It also discusses railings in Swaminarayan temples serving to separate different areas, and provides an example of a private temple in Nagpur that had no need for railings.
The document discusses various architectural elements of Hindu temples, including railings. It provides details on the railing around the ancient Mahabodhi Temple in Bodh Gaya, including that it dates back to the 2nd century BC and surrounds the Bodhi Tree where Buddha attained enlightenment. It also discusses railings in Swaminarayan temples serving to separate different areas, and provides an example of a private temple in Nagpur that had no need for railings.
The document discusses Late Antique and Byzantine art from the 4th to 7th centuries CE. It provides context on the emergence of Christian art and its influences from Roman art. Specifically, it summarizes that early Christian art appeared in the catacombs of Rome using Roman painting styles and symbols to represent Old Testament stories. As Christianity became the official religion, churches were built based on Roman basilica and central plans, adapting pagan elements. The document also discusses the rise of Byzantine art under the patronage of Justinian, including Hagia Sophia, and the use of mosaics and icon paintings in the Byzantine tradition following the Iconoclastic controversy.
The document discusses several works of art from the Early Middle Ages and Romanesque period in Europe. It provides information on a 6th century Merovingian fibula, pages from the 8th century Lindisfarne Gospels including portraits of Matthew and Luke, and the Romanesque Church of Sainte-Foy in France from the 11th-12th century along with its relic container. It also mentions the Bayeux Tapestry from the 11th century depicting the Norman invasion of England. The works demonstrate evolving styles in medieval Europe like animalistic decoration, illuminated manuscripts, stone architecture, sculpture, and narrative embroidery.
Late Antique and Byzantine Art spanned from the 4th to 15th centuries in Europe. Key developments included the legalization of Christianity under Constantine, which led to new church building types adapting Roman basilica and central plans. Early Christian art appeared primarily in the catacombs of Rome using symbols like the Chi Ro and Good Shepherd. The Byzantine Empire continued imperial patronage of art beginning with Justinian, seen in mosaic masterpieces like San Vitale and Hagia Sophia. Icon painting emerged as a distinctive tradition, though it faced bans during the Iconoclastic Controversy.
The document summarizes developments in Northern Europe during the 16th century, including the Protestant Reformation led by Martin Luther, the impact on art with an increased focus on portraits and genre scenes over religious images, and the work of major artists like Bosch, Bruegel, and Dürer. Key events were Luther nailing his 95 theses in 1517, sparking reforms like salvation through faith alone and translating the Bible into local languages. Artists explored new subjects and styles within the technical developments of printmaking and responded to religious and social changes in Northern Europe during this period.
The document summarizes Mannerism in the later 16th century in Italy. It emerged in the 1520s in reaction to High Renaissance styles like Raphael. Key features included artificiality, twisted figures, and complex compositions that were difficult to interpret. Major mannerist artists included Pontormo, Bronzino, and Parmigianino. Architecture during this period synthesized mannerist and classical elements, as seen in the works of Palladio. The Counter Reformation also influenced art through directives from the Council of Trent.
The document provides an overview of the High Renaissance period in Italy from 1500-1524. It discusses important artists of the time like Leonardo da Vinci, Bramante, Michelangelo, Raphael, Bellini, Giorgione and Titian. Their works embodied classical ideals of balance, symmetry, and ideal proportions. Key locations included Rome, which saw a revitalization under Pope Julius II, and Venice, where artists used oil paint and canvas to create colorful works with sensuous forms.
The document provides an overview of early Renaissance art in Northern Europe during the 15th century. It focuses on Flanders, which was a wealthy region under Burgundian rule. Oil painting became popular among Flemish artists, allowing for richer colors than previous techniques. Notable painters mentioned include the Limbourg Brothers, Robert Campin, Jan van Eyck, Rogier van der Weyden, Hans Memling, and Hugo van der Goes. Their works, such as van Eyck's Ghent Altarpiece and Arnolfini Portrait, were renowned for their luminous colors, intricate details, and naturalistic style.
In 15th century Italy, Florence emerged as an intellectual, financial, and artistic center under the patronage of the Medici family. Humanism flourished during this period, emphasizing secular ideals and the study of classical Greek and Latin texts. Important early Renaissance artists included Filippo Brunelleschi, who pioneered the use of linear perspective in painting and constructed the dome of Florence Cathedral, and Lorenzo Ghiberti, whose Gates of Paradise on the Florence Baptistery made use of classical influences and set new standards for realism in sculpture. Masaccio's frescoes in Florence further advanced the use of linear perspective and naturalism in figure painting.
Giotto and other early Italian Renaissance artists like Duccio and Lorenzetti moved painting away from the flat Byzantine style towards realistic three-dimensional naturalism through techniques like foreshortening and realistic proportions. Giotto's frescoes in the Scrovegni Chapel showing biblical scenes with complex emotions helped establish him as the father of modern European painting. Duccio and Simone Martini combined Byzantine elements with Italian trends towards realism, creating works with elegant lines and refined colors.
3. Many Religions
• Place of birth of Buddhism (but only 2% of the
population today)
• Hindus (80%)
• Muslims
• Christians
• Jains
• Sikhs …
4. Many in these religions have in
common:
• The material world (yoga)is an illusion
• The spiritual world (Brahman) is real and
everlasting
• Achievement through meditation – Reach the
Nirvana
• Images = aids for meditation
• Images = products of meditation
25. Characteristics of Buddha statues
• Uniformity for centuries
• Compact pose
• Little negative space
• Usually seated in the lotus position
(sometimes standing or lying down)
• Frontal and symmetrical
• Usually detached, in meditation
59. Hinduism
• Only major religion without a founder
• Universe is cyclical
• Cosmic struggles between Gods, Humans and
demons
• Vast pantheon (millions of God)
• Personal bond with the deities
• Reincarnation
• Nirvana
60. Hinduism
• Infinite variety of the divine
• Reincarnation
• Nirvana (ultimate release from the cycle of
rebirth
• Importance of Karma (quality of behavior in a
previous life)
• World ruled by Dharma (the law)
• Each caste has its own code of conduct
61. 3 main gods
Brahma – the
creator
Vishnu- the
preserver
(10 avatars – most
famous Krishna)
Shiva- the
destructor
(3 eyes and one
trident)
64. Hindu Temple: Rich symbolism
• Long preparation to prepare the construction
of a temple
• Axis: East/west (like sun)
• Symbol of the Mount Meru
• Abode of the god
• “Womb of the World”
• Only accessible to priests / not congregational
• Cult image in inner sanctuary (garbha griha)
65. Temple of Vishnu, Deogarh, Uttar
Pradesh, India, early 6th century
Shikhara = tower
68. Vishnu sleeping on Ananta,early 6th
century
1) Vishnu
( 4 arms)
2) Brahma
(4 heads)
3) Shiva and
Parvati on a
bull
4) Lakshmi
69.
70.
71.
72.
73. Temple of Vishnu, Deogarh, Uttar
Pradesh, India, early 6th century
• Complete integration of architecture and
sculpture
• Pairs of divine couple (mithuna) appear upon
the exterior and the doorways
• Sinuous curves and lines of the body
• Dance posed
74. Orissan Temples (8th-13th century)
• Orissa – region in the
North East of India
• Center of architectural
development
• By the 8th century,
Temples became
extremely complex
• Temple cities
88. Hindu Temple Characteristics
• Thick walls
• Small interior rooms for the statue
• Post and Lintel
• Corbelled vaulting
• Riche outside decoration : to teach People
90. Shiva Nataraja, ca. 11th century
Cobras
Flame
Drum
Flaming nimbus = world
Demon of Ignorance
91. Characteristic of Indian Art
• Interconnectiveness of all arts: architecture,
painting and sculpture
• Monuments = combination of arts
• Uniformity of style
• Respect of proportions and iconography
Editor's Notes
Main River Indus and Ganges
Lot of Invasion and assimilations
18 languages
Hindi spoken by only 20% of the population
Before 1st century CE – 1st Human (Kushan Period)
representation of Buddha (before symbols) Aniconic
Siddharta Gautama
Spiritual force that teaches individual how to cope with a life full of misery
Buddha (not a god) – renounce to the royal court
Fulfillment through meditation / ascetism
Endless cycle of Birth and rebirth – until you reach the supreme spirit
Accumulation of spiritual merits: good work, charity, love of beings and religious fervor
Enlightment under a tress
1st sermon in the Deer Park in Sarnath
Set in motion the wheel (Chakra) of the Law (Dharma)
Helper of buddha
Person with a high level of enlightment
wheel
Dharma
Mud slides off its surface
Buddha was aniconic until 1st century BCE – Contact with western world
Kushan empire (Afghanistan / Pakistan and Nothern India)
1st representation anthropomorphic of Buddha
Large halo
Robe deeply carved rhytmically curving folds
Spiritual Ruler
Earlobes / ushnisha (topknot)
Urna -
Silk Road
Lot of trade with West and influence
Treatment of the hair different than traditional Buddhist representation
No frontality nor symetry
Gupta Empire - encouraged art and architecture
Creation of the stereotyped image of Buddha
Incredible uniformity of its representation – for Thousand year and across continent
Frontal / symmetry
Compact pose with little negative space
Usually seated (but standing or lying as well)
Lotus position
Draperies are different from one part to another
Tight fitting / one shoulder (diagonal)
Mudra – hand gesture codified
Ushinisha – top knot
Urna – spiral or dot on the frehead – 3rd eye
Asana - position
Chakra on feet
Halo or nimbus
Mandala – complex support for meditation
Predella: 2 groups of monks facing a wheel (symbol of preaching)
Important narrative moment: Sakyamuni’s followers returned to Buddha at the sermon in Deer Park
Curls (snail shell)
Shoulder like elephant trunk
Archeological Museum Sarnath (north of India)
Place where Buddha preached for the 1st time – one of the 4th holiest place of India
Column erected along a pilgrimage route to see the holy sites connected with the life of Buddha
Inverted lotus blossom – Bell
4 wheels and 4 symbolic animals (lion, horse, elephant and bull)
Lions are stylized faces, noses and wiskers
Repetitive pattern of the manes
Influence from Persepolis, PersiaPower of the emperor
Ashoka . One if the most important king.
Unit almost all of the indian subcontinent
He renounced to violence to follow Bouddhism
Erected many pilar
// Trajan
Legislative document on stone
Emperor // God
National emblem of India
Thruth alone triumph
Shunga period
What is a stupa:
mound.-shaped shrine without interior
For relics (monks)
Originaly – tumulus for the ashes of Buddha
Pray walking around clockwise or Eastern direction- Sun’s course
Cosmic symbolism
Center of the world
Axis connecting Heaven and Earth
Stairs to the base of the drum
Walkway for circumambulation
4 Toranas / 4 points of the compass
Dome - heaven
On the top : 3 umbrellas – Buddha, Buddha’s law and Monastic Orders (3 Jewels of Buddhism)
Originally painted in white
Vedica // Wooden fence
From wooden prototype
Horror Vacui / High relief
No representation of Buddha (aniconic)
Emèty throne
Tree under which he taught
North Torana
4 Elephants
2 rectangular posts with 3 architraves
Vertical elements
Wheel and element tripartite (3 jewels of Buddhism)
Manguo tree
Sensuous – Fertility
Pre boudhist representation
Cut in the mountain / imitation of the free standing buildingUsually along the main road
Chaitya hall – Huge space for congregation
Chaitya – typology of buildingTo host many devoteescut in rock or notCarved in the mountain (typical Indian)
Sexual connotation – penetrating the womb of a mountain
Stupa at the end with an ambulatory for ritual circumambulation
Basilica form with long nave defined by colonnade
Capital bell-shaped
Base of the column vase – originally in wood and the bases were placed in vases to prevent insects from destroying them
Curved rafter – remind of wooden architecture
Constructed to offer a shelter for large number of devotees
2 kinds if Chaita: cut rock living
Buddhist monastery
30 caves carved in the mountain
Chaitya hall and vihara
More elaborated than Karli’s
Relief and ainting
No light
3 layers of plaster
Last painted
Pigment
Little blue (lapi lazuli expensive)
Importance of the pictural cycle // Ravenna
Political significance
Padmapani (one who holds the lotus) // Avalokiteshvara (Bodhisattva of Compassion)Blue lotus
Noble countenance
Naturalism (shadow of the beck)
Downcast eyes- humility
Graceful curves – Dance rhythms
Pointed crown – high caste
Royal attribute / great spiritual attainment
Sensuous // typical of pre-Bouddhist figure
Different way to spirutuality
Shiva – creator / desctructo
Many avatar Buddha is an Avatar of Vishnu
Kali is Devi’s avatar
Kali – fertility and war and destruction
Many procedures to prepare a templeFertile ground
Ritual
Cows have to pasture…
Recitation o Sutra
Platform
One chambered structure
4 altars
4 stairs
Statue in the Garbha Griha
Vishnu sleeping (4 arms = power)
Sleeping on the Endless snake with 1000 heads (Ananta)
His wife, Lakshmi is massaging him the leg (his female side)
From his navel : lotus – beginning of the new world / beginning of the time
Brahma is going to build the world
The demons tried to kill Brahma – they will be killed by Vishnu
Shiva and Parvati his wife on a bull
Underneath – 2 brothers and their wife are fighting against 2 demons
Double rhythm: Vishnu still and movement all around
Vishnu on enthroned on Ananta’s coil
His wife stroke his foot
Richness of the jam of the door
Danse
Vurve
Sensuality
More elaborated
Elevation of typical Orissan temples
Corbelled roof
Only Temple city surviving (500 temples / originally 7000)
Only Temple city surviving (500 temples / originally 7000)
Behind Sacred water
Tower . Series of shapes that build to become a large tower
Capital of Medieval Cambodia
Spread of the Hindu art in Cambodia –
Patronage of the Khmers
Khmer ruler deified during his ownlife time
Royal palaces disappeared (perishable material)
Bricks and stone
Oriented so viewers passing throught the western gate at sunrise onJune 21sr would see the sun rise directly over the central tower
Capital of Medieval Cambodia
Spread of the Hindu art in Cambodia –
Patronage of the Khmers
Khmer ruler deified during his ownlife time
Royal palaces disappeared (perishable material)
Bricks and stone
Oriented so viewers passing throught the western gate at sunrise onJune 21sr would see the sun rise directly over the central tower
Main pyramid surrouned by 4 corner towers : temple mountain
(( Mountain Meru)
Main pyramid surrouned by 4 corner towers : temple mountain
(( Mountain Meru)
Complex plan
Central sanctuary surrouned by 3 enclosures
Lika a mandal //
Corbelled gallery roof
Elegance
Sprituality and erotism
Jewel
Horror Vacui
Repetition of shape
MET
Vigourously dancing with one foot on a dwarf, the demon of Ignorance
MET
Periodicly destroy universe so it can be reborn again
He unfolds the universe out of the drum primordial vibrating sound of creation
Flame he consuming fire of dynamic destruction
3rd eye