An unprecedented exhibition on the sacred art of India will open in May at the British Museum, exploring the origins of Hindu, Buddhist and Jain sacred art in the ancient and powerful nature spirits of India, and the spread of this art beyond the subcontinent.
This is one of the first major exhibitions in the world to look at the early devotional art of India from a multi-faith, contemporary and global perspective. It will highlight the inspiration behind now-familiar depictions of the deities and enlightened teachers of these world religions and how they were shared across the Indian Ocean to Southeast Asia and along the Silk Roads to East Asia.
The exhibition will showcase more than 180 objects – including sculptures, paintings, drawings and manuscripts – from the South Asian collection at the British Museum as well as generous loans from national and international partners. It will highlight provenance, examining the stories, from creation to acquisition by museums, of every object in the show. Important objects include the symbolic footprints which preceded portrayals of the Buddha in human form to the cosmic serpents incorporated into Hindu art and the nature spirits who attend Jain enlightened teachers.
This exhibition was developed in collaboration with an advisory community panel of practicing Hindus, Buddhists and Jains. The colorful, multi-sensory and atmospheric exhibition design will bring immersive experience to the visitors.
The exhibition will last until October 19.
Source: British Museum