The religion that originated in India took on so many different forms that it is often difficult to see how the various sects of Buddhism are related.
Dr. Jennifer N. McIntire
Despite a princely upbringing, Siddhartha insisted he was just a man—albeit one who attained perfection.
The historical Buddha
Dressed in robes and adorned with jewels, this princely figure has foregone nirvana, maintaining earthly ties.
Bodhisattva, probably Avalokiteshvara (Guanyin)
This enormous Buddhist wall painting exemplifies an important format of Chinese painting rarely seen in the West.
Buddha of Medicine Bhaishajyaguru (Yaoshi fo)
This monumental landscape is the most majestic example of early Song “mountain water” painting.
Neo-Confucianism and Fan Kuan, Travelers by Streams ...
Located at a desert crossroads along the Silk Road, these famous caves boast wall paintings and colorful sculpture.
Mogao caves at Dunhuang
This cave complex reveals how Northern Wei and early Tang rulers used Buddhist imagery to assert authority.
Longmen caves, Luoyang
Excavated from an ancient tomb, this opulent silk banner features the earliest known portrait in Chinese painting.
Funeral banner of Lady Dai (Xin Zhui)
Despite a princely upbringing, Siddhartha insisted he was just a man—albeit one who attained perfection.
The historical Buddha
The religion that originated in India took on so many different forms that it is often difficult to see how the various sects of Buddhism are related.
Browse Smarthistory images for teaching & learning!
