The Arts of India Virginia Museum of Fine Arts

This book describes the Indian art collection of the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts. From ivory sculptures to miniature paintings and lavishly illustrated manuscripts, this book features many historically important objects. 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 art historical, aesthetic, and cultural significance of each object together with documentation of its provenance, exhibition, and publication history. The 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.