The art of Indonesia

On the island of Java, a monumental Buddhist temple was built, lost to time, and then rediscovered.

c. 800 C.E.–present

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Raden Saleh, <em>The Arrest of Prince Diponegoro</em>
Raden Saleh, The Arrest of Prince Diponegoro

Anti-colonial sentiment likely motivated Saleh to depict the historical scene of Diponegoro’s arrest.

Sunyaragi, a Javanese pleasure garden
Sunyaragi, a Javanese pleasure garden

Sunyaragi is one of the least known archaeological sites in Indonesia—despite its attractive and enigmatic architectural plan.

Sukuh, a mountain sanctuary
Sukuh, a mountain sanctuary

The main temple of Sukuh, with its pyramid-like appearance, is unlike any other on Java.

Prambanan Temple compounds
Prambanan Temple compounds

Built in the 10th century, this is the largest temple compound dedicated to Shiva in Indonesia.

Bronze figure of Buddha Vairocana (Java)
Bronze figure of Buddha Vairocana (Java)

In many Vajrayana Buddhist temples in Java the five Buddhas are arranged in a mandala with Vairocana at the center.

Shadow puppet, Java
Shadow puppet, Java

Shadow puppets are popular in Java today, although the tradition dates back to the 11th century

The Spirit of the Barong, Bali, Indonesia
The Spirit of the Barong, Bali, Indonesia

Barong processions and dances are a vital part of ceremonial life in Bali.

Borobudur
Borobudur

The walkways and reliefs of this incredible sanctuary guide pilgrims toward higher states of consciousness.

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