Transformative Changes in Ancient Indian Art
About two millennia ago, Indian art underwent a remarkable transformation, primarily driven by Buddhist influences. This art form, with its enigmatic and abstract qualities, excelled in capturing the essence of the human body and spirit.
This can be particularly felt at a current exhibition, where a vibrant and harmonious gathering of pilgrims and donors unfolds. You’ll encounter depictions of two horses, carrying either a merchant or a courtier, all rendered in perfect perspective. The figures are alive, their forms swirling and receding, surrounded by fellow travelers—some riding horses and others walking by. There’s a sense of passion in the portrayal, a lively carnival atmosphere, yet this bustling human activity also conveys an underlying order and tranquility.
The exhibition showcases not just art but masterpieces of Buddhism that elucidate inner peace. Included is a spectacular relief from the great pagoda of Amaravati, unearthed by the East India Company in the early 19th century and now part of the British Museum’s collection. This dome-shaped pagoda, an architectural marvel, once housed Buddhist and Jain artifacts modeled after ancient mounds. It was adorned with sublime paintings from the first century AD. Notably, a serene Buddha stands taller among the figures, embodying calm.
We can’t really pinpoint the exact era of Siddhartha Gautama, the enlightened figure known as Buddha, but by the time this art was created, his teachings had already been influencing the world for around 500 years. This moment marked an influential Renaissance in the history of global arts. The exhibition captures this artistic reality in a unique manner, steering clear of stylistic complications or intricate historical details. Instead, it relays heartfelt narratives about the three major religions of ancient India: Hinduism, Jainism, and Buddhism, showcasing their vibrancy. You might find practitioners of these faiths in England today, sharing their dedication through visual art—a refreshing way to reconnect with such ancient expressions of spirituality.
Hindu and Jain beliefs predate Buddhism, with Hinduism being notably older. Yet, after the Buddhists’ breakthrough in narrative artistry, these other religions evolved into remarkable figurative forms too. It’s tempting to consider this an artistic rivalry, but perhaps it’s more of a dialogue. Initially, I found myself somewhat mistaken, displaying a striking Jain statue meant to represent Buddhist bodhisattvas. Interestingly, the ethereal elegance of these figures captures Jain ideals of universal compassion.
One of the most profound shifts in artistic expression came from Hinduism. Few could rival the friendly and paradoxical representation of Ganesha, the elephant-headed deity. His statues, displayed in this show, are remarkable technical achievements that seamlessly fuse human and elephant forms, dating from around AD 1100 to AD 1200. Yet, it’s not just the craftsmanship that impresses; there’s a sense of empathy in the artistry, reflecting Ganesha’s wisdom and charm.
This inviting art stands in stark contrast to the more austere representation of Shiva, traditionally symbolized by the aniconic lingam. Still, the emotional dimension here is potent—there’s a significant divergence when we consider the erotic embrace often present in Indian sacred art. Statues portraying Yaksis from around 300 BC celebrate female fertility and sexuality, adorned with graceful jewelry and curves that recur throughout the exhibition. This celebration of womanhood resonates across the three major religions. One notable relief from Amaravati illustrates the birth of Buddha, featuring his mother, Queen Maha Maya, in an almost opulent pose as she brings new life into the world.
Reflecting on my own upbringing in a Protestant church, I once viewed religion as confined to restraint. But these depictions intertwine humans and elephants, merging dreams with reality. Life bursts forth in these faiths, rather than opposing it. As they grapple with the universe, mortality, and the quest for Dharma, the thirst for reality imbues Indian religions with a universal appeal. Many perceive Buddhism as distant from its Indian roots. A striking piece here is a silk painting of Buddha, nestled in a deep red and green dreamscape from a cave near Danghan, China, crafted in the 8th century. Nearby, Ganesha’s statue stands, a testament to Hinduism’s far-reaching impact.
This exhibition is wrapped in genuine mystery—not just through its ambiance, but also in how life is revered, with veils of colorful mist gently segmenting the displays, even introducing wonders like the goddess of the Shadow Snake, emerging in the dim light.
