Gandharan Art and the Classical World: A Short Introduction
By (author) Peter Stewart
Paperback (Published)
(December 2023)
ISBN: 9781803276946
6.85 x 9.65 inches
Price: $29.99
In stock
This book offers an introduction to Gandharan art and the mystery of its relationship with the Graeco-Roman world of the Mediterranean. It presents an accessible explanation of the ancient and modern contexts of Gandharan art, the state of scholarship on the subject, and guidance for further, in-depth study.
In the early centuries AD, the small region of Gandhara (centred on what is now northern Pakistan) produced an extraordinary tradition of Buddhist art which eventually had an immense influence across Asia. Mainly produced to adorn monasteries and shrines, Gandharan sculptures celebrate the Buddha himself, the stories of his life and the many sacred characters of the Buddhist cosmos. Since this imagery was rediscovered in the nineteenth century, one of its most fascinating and puzzling aspects is the extent to which it draws on the conventions of Greek and Roman art, which originated thousands of kilometres to the west. Inspired by the Gandhara Connections project at Oxford University’s Classical Art Research Centre, this book offers an introduction to Gandharan art and the mystery of its relationship with the Graeco-Roman world of the Mediterranean. It presents an accessible explanation of the ancient and modern contexts of Gandharan art, the state of scholarship on the subject, and guidance for further, in-depth study.
Preface
Chapter 1. What is Gandharan Art?
Chapter 2. Greece, Rome and Gandhara
Chapter 3. Gandharan Art Today
Further Reading and Resources
Bibliography
Full Captions and Image Credits
- By (author) Peter Stewart
'In Gandharan Art and the Classical World: A Short Introduction, Peter Stewart takes on the difficult task to touch upon the complexity of Gandharan art within a concise and accessible academic introduction... While not critically reviewing classical Gandharan scholarship, the overview of the development of art historical Gandharan studies will be helpful and accessible for students as well as for those of general interest.' – Marike van Aerde (2024): Bryn Mawr Classical Review
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'Overall, Gandharan Art and the Classical World: A Short Introduction proves to be a successful introduction in every respect, whose significance extends far beyond its length. It combines analytical depth with exceptional accessibility — not least through its open publication format, the affordable price of just under 23 euros including the PDF, and the possibility of using the book both in print and as open access. The fact that the volume is now also available in a Chinese translation and that an Urdu edition is in preparation underscores its international reach and relevance.
Precisely because of its clearly defined focus, the book belongs in every art historical and archaeological library and is likely to make a lasting contribution to establishing Gandharan art as an integral part of ancient art and cultural history.' – Gunvor Lindström (2026): Redaktion sehepunkte
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