Spanning two millennia and the breadth of southern Asia, the thirty-seven masterworks presented here introduce the reader to the great artistic achievements of India and Southeast Asia. The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art is world-renowned for its Asian collections, and this beautifully illustrated volume demonstrates why. In this catalogue readers will explore idealized sculptures created in stone and bronze, examples of richly carved wood architecture, vibrant paintings, and luxurious textiles and furniture as diverse in style as the cultures they represent. The works fall into two general categories: art for religious use, associated with Buddhism, Hinduism, and Jainism; and courtly and decorative arts, associated with the Mughal and Rajput courts and the eclectic tastes of the Colonial Era. Each work is accompanied by a detailed essay exploring its cultural and aesthetic significance. The introduction examines the history of the collection and provides a general framework for appreciating and interpreting South and Southeast Asian Art. This elegant and informative book will be enjoyed by scholars and art lovers alike.
