288. Buddhist Art and Architecture
Buddhist art, architecture and ritual have reflected and forged connections among the linguistically and culturally diverse societies of South, Central and East Asia. This course examines changes and continuities in Buddhist art and architecture from developments after the death of the historical Buddha in the 5th century B.C.E. through modern times.
Our historically and culturally structured examination of Buddhist material and visual culture will be informed throughout with thematic questions. What do material, visual and ritual culture contribute to the religious experience? How can we reconcile Buddhism's doctrinal rejection of material and visual reality with its rich artistic legacy? To what extent can we understand devotional objects as "art"? How have secular and religious agendas intersected in the spread of Buddhism? How has Buddhist art, architecture and ritual accommodated itself to widely differing cultural and historical contexts? How have the iconography and aesthetic of Buddhist art both reflected and influenced prevailing notions of social status, gender and sexuality?
(Sean McPherson)