Approaching the Buddha: Transmission and Transformation

Through images of 28 sculptures created over the course of 15 centuries, this book sheds light on how different cultures have depicted the Buddha over time. Approaching the Buddha: Transmission and Transformation highlights works from the Xuzhou Collection of Buddhist Art, a private collection of masterpieces from major Buddhist cultures across the Asian continent. These works tell the life story of the historical Buddha and convey essential tenets of his teaching. The sculptures are recognized as vehicles for enlightenment, and they embody Buddhist insights that remain relevant and valuable in today’s world.

The book features 28 works spanning a range of geographic regions, South Asia, Southeast Asia, the Himalayas, and East Asia. An introductory essay by Hao Sheng delves into the fundamental aspects of Buddhist sculptural tradition, with a focus on the reciprocal nature of viewing. Additional essays by curators, art historians, scholars of Asian art, and conservators offer insightful perspectives on the function of Buddhist sculpture, the history and teachings of the Buddha, how these lessons translate to the modern viewer and the groundbreaking conservation findings the Xuzhou Collection has brought to light.