Many, if not the majority, of past artistic works, do not fit in to our current western ideals and expectations for art. Artistic works throughout history have given glimpses into the vastly different cultures and lives of different people. Pieces of religious significance are widely abundant in historical works of art, whether they be architectural places of worship or depictions of the various religious figures and symbols through sculptures, paintings, and many other forms. Historic artistic works also show what different cultures viewed as important, whether it be their royalty or their spiritual rituals. They can also offer us a glimpse into the creators’ everyday lives. Studying art throughout history allows us to see what different groups
…show more content…
Built over a wide range of time, between the third century BC and first century AD, it stands at an impressive sixty five feet high. The structure consists of a large, looming dome shaped building surrounded by stone railings and intricately decorated gates. (Rathus 430) Its large size is impressive and the varying designs of the building materials make it appear intricate and important. Overall it appears quite plain and monotone, but further study and closer views showcase all the beautifully detailed carvings and figures. The Great Stupa, like many pieces of Indian art, served religious purposes, in this case Buddhist. It is one of many places of Buddhist worship. (Rathus 431) The large dome shape symbolizes sky, while the vedika, the stone fencing around the outside, symbolizes separation of the heavens and the earth. (Rathus 431) Ornate figures adorn the outside as well. Figures Yakshia, the Buddhist goddess of nature’s generation, can be seen on the gates surrounded by sculptures of elephants, leaves, and other representations of Buddhist culture. The style of the Buddhist carvings differ greatly from today’s American statues, with full, nude figures standing along the gates. The intricate outer appearance is important as worshipers place their importance on the outside of the structure. (Rathus 431) walk around the outside of the structure, mimicking the suns daily path. (Rathus
Built over a wide range of time, between the third century BC and first century AD, it stands at an impressive sixty five feet high. The structure consists of a large, looming dome shaped building surrounded by stone railings and intricately decorated gates. (Rathus 430) Its large size is impressive and the varying designs of the building materials make it appear intricate and important. Overall it appears quite plain and monotone, but further study and closer views showcase all the beautifully detailed carvings and figures. The Great Stupa, like many pieces of Indian art, served religious purposes, in this case Buddhist. It is one of many places of Buddhist worship. (Rathus 431) The large dome shape symbolizes sky, while the vedika, the stone fencing around the outside, symbolizes separation of the heavens and the earth. (Rathus 431) Ornate figures adorn the outside as well. Figures Yakshia, the Buddhist goddess of nature’s generation, can be seen on the gates surrounded by sculptures of elephants, leaves, and other representations of Buddhist culture. The style of the Buddhist carvings differ greatly from today’s American statues, with full, nude figures standing along the gates. The intricate outer appearance is important as worshipers place their importance on the outside of the structure. (Rathus 431) walk around the outside of the structure, mimicking the suns daily path. (Rathus