Treasures of the Buddha

the long version

"Buddhism has produced one of the most glorious cultural legacies of any great faith. For two and a half millennia both wealthy patrons and humble devotees have created a rich legacy of sacred art and architecture, from devotional paintings and manuscripts to some of the most magnificent temples and monasteries ever built. 'Treasures of the Buddha' presents a vivid portrait of the cultural heritage of Buddhism and its great treasures - from its birthplace in northern India to the lands where it took root among the peoples, kingdoms, and empires of central, southern, and eastern Asia. An illuminating commentary places the creations of Buddhist artists and artisans in their geographical, historical, and artistic contexts and explains the significance of the faith's devotional paintings, manuscript art, sculptures, architecture, and sacred motifs and symbols." -- Book flap.