From the austere dignity of a Jain Thirthankara sculpture to the rich colors of Rajput paintings, the Indian collection at the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts represents the scope of Indian art at its most expressive. Widely regarded as one of the finest in the United States, this collection was established in 1968 when funds provided by Paul Mellon enabled the Museum to purchase more than a hundred paintings, sculptures, textiles, and decorative objects from New York art dealer Nasli Heeramaneck. Today, the collection of more than 215 carefully selected objects presents a striking survey of Indian art from ancient times to the early 20th century. The publication of Arts of India makes these works of art available to national and international audiences. Many beautiful and historically important objects are published here for the first time, along with newly discovered information about specific works. Opening essays introduce India and its people, with special emphasis on the development of major religions and the dominant role of religion in art and life. Also included is a summary of the signs, symbols, and images developed to express religious concepts. Each of the four major areas of the catalogue – sculpture, painting, decorative arts, and textiles – begins with an introductory essay. Individual catalogue entries provide an analysis of the historical, aesthetic, and cultural significance of each object together with documentation of its provenance, exhibition, and publication history. Texts and inscriptions appearing on works of art are translated in the entries; transliterations and scientific and technical studies of selected works appear in appendices. Written in clear, evocative prose, this comprehensive catalogue offers a vivid picture of Indian art and culture that will engage both scholars and general readers.
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