Buddhist Treasures from Nara

·期刊原文

Buddhist Treasures from Nara

reviewed by McClelland, David

Library Journal

Vol.123 No.20 P.p.96 Dec 1998

COPYRIGHT 1998 Reed Publishing USA

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Cunningham, Michael R. & others. Buddhist Treasures from Nara.
Hudson Hills, dist. by National Bk. Network. Dec. 1998.258p.
permanent paper. illus, bibliog. ISBN 0-940717-48-4. $65.

Buddhist art reflects the culture that created it, and the wide
divergence of expression in Buddhism is well illustrated by these
two catalogs of Tibetan and Japanese art. Not only are the two
countries far distant, but their understanding of the precepts of
Buddha are radically different. The Tibetan paintings presented in
Sacred Visions are attempts to elucidate the mysteries of Tantric or
Esoteric Buddhism. Intricate mandalas, multilimbed deities linked in
sexual union, serene monks, and images of the many concepts of
Buddha are well illustrated in vibrant color photos, each
accompanied by a page of religious explanation and artistic
analysis. The vivid colors and intricate designs are well conveyed,
but slick paper and modern printing don't do justice to the velvety
surface of the originals.

The Japanese treasures from Nara are so beautifully photographed
that it is a pity the photographers are not credited; their
contribution matches that of the three writers. Conveying the
three-dimensionality of sculpture in photographs is a subtle and
exacting an, and the Cleveland Museum has created an exhibition
catalog that will have lasting value by virtue of its attention to
the quality of photography and printing. The broader range of both
the text and the objects illustrated--sculpture, paintings,
ceramics, furniture, and bronzes--will bring a broader audience to
Buddhist Treasures from Nara, while the narrow focus of Sacred
Visions will increase its value to scholars of religion and
art.--David McClelland, Philadelphia