This course provides an introduction to the visual culture of Buddhism, covering the time period from its nascence up to the present in light of its regional forms and variations. While the course follows the chronological order loosely, it is not a historical survey of Buddhist art. Each week focuses on a select body of visual materials such as pictures, artifacts, monuments, sites, and films, under a theme that addresses issues relevant to Buddhist doctrines, practices, and communities. These themes include, but are not limited to, death, time, power, violence, and play. Through this thematic approach, the course also seeks to revisit critical interpretations of Buddhist visual culture as well as theoretical deliberations on the relationship between art and religion.

This course fulfills the following Major requirements: Geographical area (B) and Chronological period (I), (II), or (III), based on the topic of the final research paper or project.