Making Sense of Buddhist Art and Architecture

Thames & Hudson’s new ‘Making Sense of...’ series will equip everyone with the knowledge to interpret religious paintings, buildings and artefacts in terms of their iconography and symbolism. By tracing the paths between belief and artistic intention, this series will deepen the reader’s understanding not only of art and architecture, but also of the world’s great religions.

Each book features 100 clearly illustrated and diverse historical works, from paintings, buildings and sculptures to manuscripts, mandalas and more. The books’ layouts are visually striking: each double-page spread features a full-page colour photograph of either a detail of the work or its context, with a second photograph chosen to illustrate its important aspects. Alongside, an expert gives a clear and succinct exposition on its significance in that particular religion’s art history and philosophy, together with key facts, including where it may be seen today.