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Learn MoreJune 7, 2023 - May 26, 2024
In South Ambulatory
June 7, 2023 - May 26, 2024
In South Ambulatory
A new long-term installation of religious art from Asia is now on view at the Allen, bringing together familiar favorites with exciting new acquisitions and recently conserved works. In response to faculty and student requests, the entire South Ambulatory is devoted to art associated with some of the great religious traditions of Asia, including Buddhism, Hinduism, Shinto, and ancient works that reflect traditional beliefs about the afterlife.
Each work is described in extended labels and grouped in relation to important themes, such as the role of jade and tomb sculptures in early Chinese religion; the iconography, or symbolism, of Buddhist and Hindu art; the role of darshan, or “seeing,” in Hindu devotional practice; the use of protective religious imagery on arms and armor; and the complex role of art in Tibetan Buddhism.
Current issues under discussion in the museum field are also put forward. For works of Asian religious art in museums, how can we reconcile their current presentation to many visitors as “art” with their original sacred character and devotional function? How can museums recognize the injustices of past art collecting practices and strive to be a space of stewardship and dialogue today?
Organized by Kevin R. E. Greenwood, Joan L. Danforth Curator of Asian Art.
Images:
Chinese, Seated Buddha, probably Yàoshīfó (Bhaiṣajyaguru, Medicine Master Buddha), 11th–12th century. Bronze with traces of gilding. R. T. Miller Jr. Fund in memory of Hazel Barker King, 1961.51.
Indian, Goddess Shield, ca. 1850–60. Iron, painted leather, and gilding. R. T. Miller Jr. Fund, 2019.10.
February 17, 2024 at 2:00 p.m.
Neomi Abrahamson (OC 2026) leads an informal discussion on Goddess Shield. This event is part of our Object Talk series, during w...
March 9, 2024 at 2:00 p.m.
Joanne Kim (OC 2026) leads an informal discussion on the Japanese artwork Miniature Samurai Armor. This event is part of our Obj...
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