In this illustrated volume, the fascinating story of Himalayan art is illuminated through a selection of significant objects from the Neolithic era to today. Paintings, sculptures, drawings, textiles, architectural structures, and more serve as a guide to explore the historical traditions, rituals, social practices, and art forms from Tibetan, Indian, Nepalese, Bhutanese, Mongolian, and Chinese regions, emphasizing cross-cultural exchange, with Tibet at the center, and introducing readers to the diversity of Himalayan art and practices.
"The Himalayas are a source of inspiration and challenge to the researchers, intellectuals and adventurers. The lofty mountains with snow-clad peaks and lush green forests fascinate one and all. This work on the art and culture of people of the Himalayan region is fourth in sequence by the author. After Folk Art of Duggar; Ripples in the Himalayas; and Rajat Shikhron Ke Rupehle Swar, this work completes the first phase of studies of Himalayan culture. Earlier Kumaon, Garhwal, Kashmir and Ladakh Himalayas and their ranges were covered in detail. With the inclusion of Dhauladhar ranges and nearby surroundings of Kangra, Palampur, Baijnath, Mandi, Kullu, Manali, Lahaul & Spiti, Kinnaur and upper regions of Shimla in this book, it completes the studies of western Himalayas. The author has visited himself in most of these areas and collected the data so that first hand information can be provided to the readers. In a way it is a first endeavour in this field wherein the people and the land are discussed collectively for the first time. However, individual tribes of Himachal Pradesh do find their place in sociological studies done in the field, but we do not find a comparative study for which an objective effort has been made in this book for the benefit of readers and art historians alike. The book covers the art, architecture and cultural aspects of Himachal Pradesh. References have also been made to Basohli, Jammu, Manket, etc. as the Pahari art of minature paintings had its own legacy in these erstwhile kingdoms." -- Cover description.
Collected over 25 years during his numerous discovery journeys in the different parts of the vast Himalayan territory, the collection illustrates the region's people heritage and culture. It offers the reader a comprehensive view of the jewellery and ornamental traditions from the many tribal groups living in this part of the world. More than 500 pieces of jewellery and adornments are displayed. The amazing varieties of material, from gold, silver, brass, ivory, semi-precious stones, shells, horn, and leather... demonstrates the unlimited skills of the Himalayan jewellery craftsmen. This book has been written in recognition of their talents. In addition, an authoritative introduction by prominent French scholar Françoise Pommaret, gives the reader a glance into the lifestyles and social systems of the indigenous people of the Himalaya.
