A Concise History of Indian Art

This survey, spanning 4000 years, traces the rich visual expression of one of the most ancient cultures thru the varied arts of India. From the beginnings in the Indus valley, thru the masterpieces of Buddhist & Hindu art, to the coming of Islam & the eclectic culture of the Mughal court, the country's artistic history is explored. Craven leads the reader thru the pantheon of the Hindu gods, the insights of Buddhist mysticism & the complex symbolism of miniature paintings. This revised edition brings the narrative up-to-date, exploring the contribution of 20th-century artists & incorporates a glossary & timeline.IntroductionHarappan culture: beginnings on the IndusHistorical & religious origins The Mauryan period: the first imperial art The Shunga dynasty: chaityas, viharas & stupasThe Andhra period: the 'world mountains'The Kushan period: Gandhara & Mathura The Gupta & Post-Gupta periodsSouth India: Pallavas, Cholas & HoysalasThe Medieval period in North IndiaIslamic India: architecture & paintingJain, Rajasthani & Pahari paintingEpilogueBibliographyAcknowledgments for IllustrationsIndex