Buddhist Architecture

Buddhist Art and ArchitectureHistory of Art I

Jocho, Buddha (Amida Nyorai), c. 1000 AD

Siddartha Gautama, c. 500 BC

Eightfold Path

Iconography

An architecture of restraintThe Great Stupa of Sanchi, c. 100 BC

Borobudur, Java, 800 ADLargest Buddhist monument in the world

Symbolized Mount Meru, home of the gods in Indian mythology

Lava stone, dry construction

MandalaEight levels to symbolize the eightfold path to enlightenment

Relief panels(Over 2,600 ring the monument)On the first tier, the causes of human suffering

Panels read clockwise; each tier begins and ends at the eastern gate

Tribhanga PoseLife of Siddartha Gautama panels

As you ascend the decoration becomes more simple (pure)

Literally elevated

Phoenix Hall, Kyoto Japan, c. 1000 AD

Jocho, Buddha (Amida Nyorai), c. 1000 AD

1) Location on island

2)The weightlessness of nirvana

Material? Construction?

Bracket set

3) The PhoenixSymbol of grace and virtue; only appears in areas blessed with peace and happiness.