Originally the catalog for what must have been a magnificent exhibition in 1995, this book ultimately transcends its origins and stands firmly on its own as a fine introduction and overview of Jain art at once dependably informative and visually stunning. Lavishly illustrated with 121 specific works along with other additional images, "Peaceful Liberators" ranges in time from the earliest archaeological finds dating around the first century AD to common devotional items of the late 19th century, and geographically as well brings together examples from across the many various regions of India, taking care to note local stylistic particularities.

Included then are architectural fragments from ancient Jain temples and more recent household shrines, ritual objects one might have found in such locations, an appropriately vast array of Jina images--the peaceful liberators of the title and the focus and ideal of Jainism--often naked (or nearly so) in their thoroughgoing non-attachment and transcendence, a host of deities and lesser divinities loyal to the Jinas and highly important to Jain religiosity (not to mention enormously fascinating in their fantastic variety), and finally sacred illuminated manuscripts and massively complex cosmic diagrams, pilgrimage maps, and even board games. Each work is explained in detail, and several essays by experts in the field help to place all of this variegated visual splendor in a comprehensible context even as they serve well as a crash course in Jainism as a religion. Anyone who assumes that art suffers under strict religious asceticism will be in for a surprise here. Indeed, the incredibly varied and rich Jain artistic tradition as found in these pages would almost lead one to the opposite conclusion. But why take my word for it? Give this excellent book a look and see for yourself!

The Essays included in this book are:
"Introduction" by Pratapaditya Pal
"Following the Jina, Worshiping the Jina: An Essay on Jain Rituals" by John E. Cort
"Are Jains Really Hindus? Some Parallels and Differences between Jain and Hindu Philosophies" by Gerald James Larson
"Jain Pilgrimage: In Memory and Celebration of the Jinas" by Phyllis Granoff
"Jain Monumental Painting" by Shridhar Andhare
"Jain Manuscript Painting" by John Guy

This is a wonderful book with many color and b&w illustrations of Jain art. The book also chronicles Jain history and culture and its relationship to Art