Divine Art

Religions of the world have inspired divine art forms, embracing the deepest insights and highest aspirations of mankind. This book charts the origin and evolution of these divine art forms and aims to understand the deeper, spiritual psychology of human beings inspired by divinity. Beginning with the worship of nature, divine art inspired forms as diverse as writing, music, dance, drama, painting, sculpture and architecture. Some early manifestations of divine art included the illustration of religious lore, epics and ballads on papyrus, palm fronds and parchment. Divine art also inspired dance forms such as the tsam and the noh. Architecture too reached its highest forms of magnificence as man tried to invoke and appease the gods. In this age of consumerism and materialism, divine art not only instils in us feelings of love and compassion but also helps us transcend our suffering. This book comes as a source of hope and elucidation that divinity holds us together.

Dr Shashibala, a research professor at the International Academy of Indian Culture, New Delhi, specialises in the art and culture of Asian countries. She also teaches the history of Japanese and South Asian art at the National Museum, Delhi. She has written the widely acclaimed book, Buddhist Art, published by Roli Books, and has contributed extensively to prestigious art journals and magazines, both abroad and in India.