India A History in Objects
India A History in Objects by Richard Blurton, published by National Geographic Books on September 27, 2022, offers an authoritative visual history of India, showcasing one of the world’s oldest and most vibrant cultures. This edition spans 256 pages and is presented in English, featuring a rich collection of South Asian art and artifacts that trace the region’s history from prehistory to the present. The book is arranged chronologically and includes a diverse array of religious and secular objects, connecting contemporary South Asia with its historical roots.
Readers will find a comprehensive exploration of India’s material culture, beginning with prehistoric artifacts and progressing through significant historical periods, including the Indus Civilization and the rise of major religions such as Buddhism, Hinduism, and Islam. The volume highlights the Mughal dynasty’s influence on art and economy, illustrated through paintings, architecture, and luxury goods. Additionally, it examines modern Indian culture, including contemporary photography and performing arts, providing insights into both urban and rural life across the subcontinent. This book serves as a valuable resource for those interested in the intersection of art, history, and culture in India.
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An authoritative visual history of India, one of the world’s oldest and most vibrant cultures, drawing on South Asian art and artifacts from prehistory to the present.
India: A History in Objects presents a beautiful collection of material culture from South Asia and traces its history through a huge variety of art and artifacts, both religious and secular.
Arranged chronologically, and abundantly illustrated with expertly selected objects, this superb new overview connects today’s South Asia with its past. Early chapters describe prehistoric objects from 1.5 million years ago, examine artifacts from the Indus Civilization, and follow the emergence of Buddhism, Jainism, Hinduism, Sikhism, Islam, and Christianity. The collection outlines the rise of the Mughals, the greatest Muslim dynasty of India, who made India a leading economic power. The distinct Mughal style is traced through paintings, architecture, hardstone carving, metalwork, and jewelry. This volume also explores the early trade industry to Europe via examples of spice pots, textiles, and other luxury goods. Finally, modernism and political independence in the 20th century are examined through Indian culture such as popular prints, contemporary photography, and the performing arts.
This volume presents a vast panoply, from the urban splendor of dynastic empires to the rural life of the subcontinent. A compelling visual history of rich and diverse cultures, this book will inspire and inform anyone interested in India and material culture.
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