Art History 143: Buddhist Art in Asia

This course presents an overview of Buddhist art and architecture, beginning with its origins in South Asia and tracing its dissemination into East and Southeast Asia. A variety of media will be examined and interpreted within the context of Buddhist religious practice, regional artistic traditions, and shifting religious doctrine. Topics including the origin of the Buddha image, pilgrimage and modes of worship, Buddhist iconography, and the intersection of Buddhist religion and politics will be discussed. Several short papers, presentations, exams, and class participation are required. May be taken for credit toward the Chinese or Japanese major or minor or the South Asian and Middle Eastern Studies major.