Traditions of Asian Art

(Paperback)

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The art traditions of Asia reflect the complex history of this huge continent. Some of the traditions are linked with the art of the Mediterranean world, while others show influences from the art of the Pacific islands. In all cases, however, the art forms of Asia are firmly rooted in local and regional histories. Consisting of various art forms and traditions, Asian art is not characterized by any single dominant style or culture, unlike Greek art in the wider context of western art. Its forms range from the use of the body as the primary vehicle of visual communication to more sophisticated forms, like calligraphy. Based on the collection of Asian art in the National Gallery of Australia in Canberra, this book spans 4000 years of history to present a selection of art from all over the Asian continent. Beginning with a ceramic vessel from the Middle Jomon period in Japan (c.2500-1500 BC) and a carved stone idol from the Middle Bronze Age in Jordan (c.1500), it concludes with a selection of contemporary works. Each work is accompanied by an explanatory text setting the piece in its cultural, historical and artistic context.