The Metaphors of Indian Arts and Other Essays

Book Detail

• ISBN: 9788124608203
• Brand: D.K. Printworld Pvt. Ltd.
• Edition: 2015
• Binding: Hardcover
• Number of Pages: 352
• Release Date: 01-09-2015
• Package Dimensions: 9.1 x 6.6 x 1.1 inches
• Languages: English

Description

"Metaphors of the Indian Arts and Other Essays" is a collection of writings by Dr. Kapila Vatsyayan, a renowned art critic and historian. The anthology reflects her nearly four-decade-long journey, examining the distinct nature of Indian arts through the lens of the worldview in which they originated. The book delves into the theory of art and aesthetics, offering a unique perspective that allows readers to understand Indian artistic traditions while comparing them to other global art forms.

In the seminal article “Metaphors of the Indian Arts”, Dr. Vatsyayan identifies key fundamentals that permeate Indian artistic traditions. The book also features “Mountain, Myth, Monuments”, where the author explores the significance of mountains and sacred sanctuaries, particularly Kailasa, which have inspired Indian art, literature, architecture, sculpture, music, and dance for centuries.

Dr. Vatsyayan also examines the treatment of the human body in Indian art, particularly the female body, with a historical overview of its depiction. The article “Early Evidence of Female Figures, Music and Dance” highlights examples of human and female forms from various civilizations, including Mesopotamia, Assyria, Egypt, and the Indus Valley, connecting the shared meanings across these cultures.

Further, the author delves into Indian aesthetics, articulating the ideational background of the traditions that have influenced Indian art. She also identifies motifs that have traveled across South-East Asia, showcasing the interconnectedness of Indian art and culture with the broader region.

This collection offers deep insights into Dr. Vatsyayan's journey and her significant role in the history of Indian art, aligning her work with the traditions of A.K. Coomaraswamy and Stella Kramrisch.

Author Details

• Author: Dr. Kapila Vatsyayan
• About the Author: Dr. Kapila Vatsyayan was an acclaimed art historian and critic, with a career spanning over forty years in the study of Indian and global art traditions. Her work, rooted in the philosophical and aesthetic traditions of Indian culture, influenced generations of scholars. Her contributions continue to shape the understanding of Indian art and its impact globally.